TUNIS, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Tunisian maritime authorities rescued 1,178 undocumented immigrants off its eastern coast and thwarted 28 attempts at illegal sea crossings to Italy on Saturday, the Tunisian National Guard said in a statement.

The maritime guards intercepted vessels off the coast of Sfax province, saving 1,160 immigrants from sub-Saharan Africa and 18 Tunisians. Additionally, two bodies were recovered during the operations.

Authorities also seized 15 boats and arrested nine individuals. Measures against the immigrants are being taken after consultation with the public prosecutor's office, according to the statement.

Located in the central Mediterranean, Tunisia is one of the main points of access to Europe used by undocumented immigrants.

Despite the stringent measures implemented by Tunisian authorities, the number of undocumented immigrants attempting to reach Italy from the Tunisian coast continues to rise. Enditem

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