Leaked audio reveals Greek complacency in 2023 shipwreck – Pakistan

Recent revelations have intensified scrutiny on Greek authorities regarding their role in the tragic sinking of a migrant boat, the Adriana, which claimed the lives of over 700 individuals, primarily from Pakistan. A leaked audio recording suggests that Greek rescue officials may have misled the boat’s captain about the intentions of those onboard, contributing to the disaster. As the investigation unfolds, survivors recount harrowing details of the events leading up to the capsizing.

Details of the Adriana’s Sinking

The Adriana capsized on June 14, 2023, while carrying approximately 350 Pakistani migrants in international waters, yet within Greece’s designated rescue zone. Despite the scale of the tragedy, only 82 bodies have been recovered, with the United Nations estimating that around 500 people perished in the incident. The boat’s sinking has raised serious questions about the adequacy of the rescue efforts by Greek authorities, who have been accused of negligence.

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According to the leaked audio, a rescue officer instructed the captain of the Adriana to inform an approaching vessel that the migrants did not wish to reach Greece. This directive was reiterated in a subsequent call, where the officer advised the captain to document that the migrants preferred to go to Italy instead. These communications have led to allegations that Greek officials may have intentionally mismanaged the rescue operation, contributing to the boat’s tragic fate.

Survivors’ Accounts and Allegations

Survivors of the Adriana have shared chilling accounts of the events leading up to the disaster. Usman Siddique, a 30-year-old policeman from Gujrat, Pakistan, was one of the twelve survivors. He described how, just hours before the boat sank, a helicopter flew overhead, taking photographs of the vessel. Later that day, a cargo ship approached, providing the migrants with water and bread, but the situation deteriorated when a larger ship, reportedly with Greek coastguards, arrived.

Despite pleas for assistance from the migrants, particularly women and children, Siddique claims that the coastguard vessel left the scene without offering help. Shortly after, another ship attempted to tow the Adriana, which led to the boat capsizing. Siddique recounted the chaos as people struggled to stay afloat, with many drowning in the turbulent waters. He credited his survival to swimming skills acquired during his police training.

Official Responses and Ongoing Investigations

In response to the allegations, the Greek coastguard has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that they did not attempt a rescue because the migrants had expressed a desire to reach Italy rather than Greece. However, the claims made by survivors, including Siddique, have sparked outrage and calls for accountability. The incident has drawn attention to the broader issues surrounding migrant safety in the Mediterranean and the responsibilities of European nations in rescue operations.

As investigations continue, the tragic loss of life in the Adriana incident serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by migrants seeking a better future. The unfolding details of this case may lead to significant implications for Greek authorities and their handling of migrant rescues in the future.