Mediterranean Tragedy: At Least 18 Migrants Dead After Boat Capsizes Near Crete
Mediterranean Tragedy: At Least 18 Migrants Dead After Boat Capsizes Near Crete. A devastating migrant tragedy has unfolded in the Mediterranean Sea, where at least 18 migrants lost their lives after an inflatable boat capsized south of the Greek island of Crete. The incident highlights once again the deadly risks faced by people fleeing conflict, poverty, and instability in search of a safer future in Europe.
Passing Merchant Ship Finds Half-Sunken Vessel
The half-submerged boat was discovered on Saturday by a Turkish merchant ship, whose crew immediately alerted authorities. The merchant ship managed to rescue two survivors, who were found clinging to the remains of the vessel. Their condition and identities have not yet been made public.
Large-Scale Search and Rescue Operation Launched
Following the alert, Greek authorities mobilized a major rescue mission involving multiple agencies and vessels. According to official reports, the operation currently includes:
A ship and aircraft deployed by Frontex, the European border agency
A Greek Coast Guard helicopter
Three additional merchant vessels assisting in the search
Rescue crews are battling challenging sea conditions as they continue searching for any remaining survivors.
Cause of the Incident Still Unknown
Authorities have not yet determined what caused the boat to capsize, nor confirmed the origin of the vessel. Poorly built or overloaded inflatable boats are commonly used by smugglers, making them especially vulnerable to rough waters and sudden weather shifts.
Greece: A Major Gateway for Migrants
Greece remains one of the primary entry points into the European Union for migrants and refugees escaping conflict zones in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The dangerous sea crossing between Turkey, North Africa, and Greek islands has claimed thousands of lives over the past decade.
Despite international patrol efforts, fatal maritime accidents remain frequent due to overcrowded boats, unstable conditions, and the desperate circumstances of those attempting the journey.
A Continuing Humanitarian Crisis
This latest tragedy underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean, where countless people continue risking everything for the hope of safety and stability. As search efforts continue, international organizations are once again calling for more coordinated policies and safer migration routes.
Source – the hindu
