14-6-2023 (ATHENS) The devastating toll from the capsizing of a fishing boat carrying refugees and migrants off the southwestern coast of Greece has now reached 59, according to reports from Greek national broadcaster ERT. Local authorities have confirmed the rising death count, while rescue efforts continue to locate an unknown number of individuals who remain missing.
The incident occurred during the night between Tuesday and Wednesday in international waters, approximately 47 nautical miles off the coast of Pylos. Survivors have revealed that the fishing boat had departed from Tobruk in Libya, embarking on a perilous journey towards Italy. However, tragedy struck, and the vessel capsized, plunging those on board into a fight for survival.
The Hellenic Coast Guard, in an earlier press release, highlighted that none of the passengers were wearing life jackets. Greek authorities were alerted to the incident by their Italian counterparts, prompting an immediate response and the initiation of a search and rescue operation.
At present, a total of 104 passengers have been rescued, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the somber circumstances. However, the search continues as authorities strive to locate those who remain unaccounted for.
The nationalities of both the victims and survivors have yet to be identified, adding to the complexity of the situation. The Greek President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, will travel to the nearby city of Kalamata, where the rescued individuals are being transferred. Her presence aims to offer solace and support during this trying time.
In a separate incident on Tuesday evening, Greek authorities successfully rescued 80 migrants and refugees aboard a sailing boat south of Crete island, as reported by the Greek national news agency AMNA.
Greece has been on the frontlines of the refugee and migrant influx since 2015, and unfortunately, hundreds have lost their lives in the treacherous waters of the Aegean Sea over the past eight years.
