Dozens of bodies believed to be refugees found on beach in southern Italy

At least 30 people have died after the shipwreck of a boat believed to be carrying refugees off the eastern coast of Italy’s Calabria region, accoding to reports from ANSA and other Italian news agencies.

Twenty-seven bodies were found washed up on the shores of Steccato di Cutro, a seaside resort in the province of Crotone, and more were spotted at sea, ANSA said, adding that three other bodies were found in the water.

The Adnkronos news agency said more than 100 people were onboard the boat, and that about 50 people had been rescued.

The boat, believed to be bringing refugees from Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan, crashed against rocks during rough weather, Adnkronos said.

The Italian coastguard was not immediately reachable for comment.

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