In a heartbreaking event south of Crete, a wooden migrant boat flipped over, resulting in five confirmed deaths and at least 20 people unaccounted for. The accident took place about 27 kilometers offshore from Kala Limena, a small coastal settlement on the island’s southern shore.
According to the Greek Coast Guard, the drama began when rescue ships neared the distressed vessel. One of the commercial ships lowered a ladder for the migrants to board. However, as several attempted to climb, the boat became unstable, causing it to capsize instantly.
Quick action by a cargo ship flying the Panamanian flag saved 20 lives. Frontex and Coast Guard teams pulled three bodies from the water, followed by two additional recoveries. The survivors revealed the boat was packed with roughly 50 people, suggesting more casualties may be found.
Rescue efforts persist with helicopters, military planes, and multiple vessels combing the area. This latest mishap highlights the deadly risks migrants face on these routes.
Greece remains a key entry point for migrants fleeing conflict and poverty, with more than one million undocumented arrivals since 2015. Fatalities in the Aegean Sea and along the Evros River with Turkey continue to mount, despite international efforts to curb irregular crossings.
Just weeks ago, two young migrants were discovered deceased near the Evros River, serving as a grim reminder of the human cost involved. Experts call for safer pathways and stronger prevention measures to avert future losses.