Tragic Collision Claims Lives of Migrants Near Chios
Greek authorities reported a devastating incident on Wednesday involving a collision between a coastguard vessel and a migrant boat off the coast of Chios, resulting in at least 15 fatalities, including four women. The collision occurred on Tuesday near the Turkish coast, an area that has become a significant entry point for asylum seekers attempting to reach Europe. Migration Minister Thanos Plevris condemned the incident, attributing the tragedy to human traffickers who were attempting to drop off migrants at Chios. He described the deaths as a “tragic incident” during a parliamentary debate focused on increasing penalties for people-smuggling activities.
The Mediterranean Sea remains a perilous route for migrants, with over 1,700 individuals reported dead or missing in 2022 alone, according to the United Nations refugee agency. The International Organization for Migration has documented approximately 33,000 deaths or disappearances in the Mediterranean since 2014. This ongoing crisis highlights the dangers faced by those seeking refuge in Europe.
Details of the Incident and Rescue Efforts
The Greek coastguard stated that the migrant vessel involved in the collision was traveling at high speed and lacked navigation lights. The boat reportedly failed to respond to visual and audible signals from the coastguard. Instead of complying, the pilot turned the vessel, leading to a collision with the starboard side of the coastguard patrol boat. The impact caused the migrant boat to capsize and sink.
Rescue operations commenced immediately, with authorities deploying five boats and a helicopter to search for survivors and victims. Fourteen bodies were recovered from the sea, including three women. Tragically, another woman succumbed to her injuries shortly after the incident. Among the 25 survivors, who were taken to a hospital on Chios, were 11 children and two injured coastguards. The survivors were reported to be of Afghan nationality, as confirmed by Christos Tsiachris, the director of the local hospital.
The European Commission is closely monitoring the situation and is in contact with Greek authorities, who have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Spokesman Markus Lammert expressed condolences, stating, “Every life lost at sea is a tragedy.” He emphasized the need to combat human smuggling, which places countless lives at risk, underscoring the importance of collaboration with partner countries to prevent such incidents in the future.
