A Gozo fast ferry vessel caught fire while en route to Gozo this afternoon and all passengers had to be evacuated.

Footage sent to Lovin Malta shows the San Franġisk vessel emitting smoke by the Mġarr Port and CPD officials on site to help put out the flames and evacuate the passengers and staff. Police officers and ambulances are also on site.

Details are scant at this stage, although sources on site said it appeared to be an engine fire.

PN MP Alex Borg expressed his solidarity with the ferry workers, passengers and CPD officials, as well as the private vessels who helped in the rescue.