Daily Reports
Tragic Collision in the Aegean Sea: One Migrant Killed, Five Injured
A tragic collision occurred in the Aegean Sea on Friday evening between an inflatable boat carrying migrants and a Greek coast guard patrol boat. The incident resulted in the death of one migrant and injuries to five others. Greek authorities confirmed the accident on Saturday, stating that the collision happened off the island of Symi, near the Turkish coast.
According to a press release from the Greek coast guard, two patrol boats spotted an inflatable vessel sailing at high speed without navigation lights towards the islet of Nimos. The coast guard attempted to intercept the boat using sound and light signals; however, the boat failed to comply.
In a desperate attempt to evade capture, the boat's pilot jumped overboard, causing a collision with one of the pursuing coast guard patrol boats. The impact threw most of the passengers into the sea.
The Greek coast guard managed to rescue 18 people, including a minor, from the water as the migrants' boat sank. First aid was administered to five injured migrants, while a sixth individual, who was unconscious, required resuscitation.
Despite efforts to save them, one of the injured migrants was pronounced dead after being transferred to the Symi health center. The coast guard arrested the pilot of the inflatable boat. Investigations revealed that the passengers had each paid approximately $4,000 (nearly 3,700 euros) to be transported from Datça, Turkey, to Greece.
- The Greek coast guard has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding maritime borders while ensuring that search and rescue operations are carried out in accordance with international standards. The authorities have faced criticism in the past for their handling of migrant boats, and this tragic incident is likely to further fuel ongoing debates surrounding migration policies in the region.
- The island of Symi, located in the southeast Aegean, has been a significant waypoint for migrants attempting to reach Europe from Turkey. This route is fraught with danger, as evidenced by numerous similar incidents involving overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels attempting the perilous journey.
- Europe continues to grapple with migrant inflows, with many fleeing conflict, persecution, and economic hardship in their home countries. The European Union has been under pressure to devise comprehensive solutions to manage migration effectively, balancing humanitarian responsibilities with border security.
