A tragedy occurred this morning in the waters off Rhodes, with eight migrants dead and several injured. The Hellenic Coast Guard is conducting ongoing searches for any missing persons, while 18 people have been rescued.
How the tragedy occurred
The migrants fell into the sea from a speedboat five nautical miles east of the Afantou area of Rhodes. According to the Coast Guard, the speedboat’s operator lost control of the vessel while attempting dangerous manoeuvres to evade a patrol boat.
Search operations in the area are continuing with two Coast Guard patrol boats, while a third vessel is en route to the location. Additionally, an Air Force helicopter is conducting aerial searches.
Greece Minister of Shipping and Island Policy: The ruthless smuggling network sacrificed eight lives today
In a statement, the Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Christos Stylianidis, remarked, “Unfortunately, once again, the ruthless smuggling network, in pursuit of illegal profits, has sacrificed the lives of eight of our fellow human beings today, including a small child. For this, I would like to express my deepest sorrow for the loss of so many human lives, particularly under such tragic circumstances.”
“I mentioned it just a few days ago, in light of a similar tragedy in Samos. I will say it again today. The goal of the Ministry, the Hellenic Coast Guard, and myself personally is to put a stop to this vile smuggling network. This goal is non-negotiable. Our decision is to definitively tackle the major issue of illegal immigration, which is exceeding the capacity of the European Union. And we will tackle it!”
Also read: US deports 270,000 people in 2024, numbers exceed Trump era
Source: ANA-MPA/Naftemporiki.gr
