A tragic incident off the coast of southern Greece has claimed the lives of at least 79 people, with more than 100 individuals successfully rescued after their fishing vessel capsized. However, Greek officials and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) suspect that there may have been hundreds more migrants on board the ill-fated boat. This shipwreck marks the deadliest incident of its kind in Greece this year.
The vessel sank approximately 50 miles (80 km) southwest of Pylos after the coastguard reported that it had refused assistance. Earlier, the coastguard had spotted the boat in international waters late on Tuesday, thanks to an aircraft operated by the EU border agency Frontex. Disturbingly, no passengers on board were wearing life jackets.
A few hours later, the boat tragically capsized and sank, leading to a search and rescue operation that was further complicated by strong winds. Alarm Phone, an emergency helpline for distressed migrants at sea, revealed that the Greek coastguard had been aware of the ship’s distress for hours before providing any aid. They further claimed that various sources had notified authorities of the boat’s predicament. Alarm Phone raised concerns that people may have been reluctant to encounter Greek authorities due to the country’s alleged practice of forceful pushbacks.
Reportedly en route to Italy from Libya, the boat primarily carried men in their 20s. Survivors recounted the presence of as many as 500 to 700 individuals on board. Regional health director Yiannis Karvelis warned of an unprecedented tragedy, stating that the number of people exceeded the boat’s capacity.
Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou visited some of the rescued individuals and expressed her sorrow for those who tragically drowned. In light of this incident and the upcoming Greek elections on June 25, political leaders suspended campaigning, and an election debate slated for Thursday evening is expected to address this heartbreaking event.
