In February, Italy declared a state of emergency due to the influx of illegal immigrants fleeing from Tunisia and Libya. The island’s population more than doubled and the local economy, which is reliant on fishing and tourism, suffered a major decline during this period.

The tourism industry dropped by 85%, thus enabling the government to take measures against illegal immigration. After months of negotiations and operations, the situation is finally under control.

Helicopters fly out everyday to spot boats holding illegal immigrants. When spotted, the Coast Guards jump into the boats and escort...