Tragic Greece Boat Disaster Claims 78 Lives with Hundreds Missing

A fishing boat incident off the coast of southern Greece has claimed the lives of at least 78 individuals, while over 100 people have been rescued. Survivors’ accounts suggest that the boat may have been overcrowded, with reports indicating that as many as 750 people, including 100 children, were crammed onboard.

Greek authorities have declared it one of the largest migrant tragedies in the country’s history and have declared three days of mourning. Although authorities claim their offers of assistance were declined, they are facing criticism for not doing enough to aid the distressed individuals.

The boat sank in the early hours of Wednesday, approximately 80km (50 miles) southwest of Pylos. Frontex, the EU’s border agency, had spotted the boat on Tuesday afternoon and promptly alerted Greek and Italian authorities. Notably, it has been reported that no life jackets were being worn by those onboard. The timeline provided by the Greek coastguard reveals that initial contact was made at 14:00 on Tuesday, but no distress signal was issued.

The Greek shipping ministry made repeated attempts to communicate with the boat, which stated its intention to sail to Italy. A Maltese-flagged ship provided food and water around 18:00, followed by another vessel supplying water three hours later. Shortly before 02:00 on Wednesday, the boat reported an engine malfunction, and shortly thereafter, it capsized, sinking within 10 to 15 minutes. Strong winds complicated the subsequent search and rescue operation. The boat is believed to have been en route from Libya to Italy, primarily carrying men in their 20s.

Survivors, who were treated for hypothermia and minor injuries, estimated that there were between 500 and 750 people onboard. Regional health director Yiannis Karvelis described the situation as an unprecedented tragedy due to the boat’s excessive overcrowding. One survivor informed a doctor that there were approximately 100 children in the hold. The nationality of the victims has not been disclosed. President Katerina Sakellaropoulou expressed condolences for the lives lost during her visit to rescued survivors.

Each year, numerous individuals lose their lives attempting to cross the Mediterranean, highlighting the dangers of irregular migration. Greece has emphasized the need for a comprehensive EU migration policy to ensure assistance and protection for those truly in need, rather than leaving the fate of vulnerable individuals in the hands of smugglers.

As a primary entry point for refugees and migrants from the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, Greece has faced significant challenges in managing migration flows. In recent times, the Greek government faced criticism for allegedly forcibly expelling migrants at sea. According to UN data, over 70,000 refugees and migrants have arrived in Europe’s frontline countries this year, with Italy receiving the majority.

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