A heartbreaking accident unfolded off the coast of Chios, Greece, when a migrant-laden speedboat collided with a coastguard vessel. The late Tuesday incident claimed at least 14 lives, intensifying the ongoing migrant crisis in the Aegean Sea.
Details of the Incident
The collision occurred around 9 p.m. local time, near the Mersinidi coast of Chios, according to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency. The Greek authorities noted that the speedboat was executing risky maneuvers near the village of Vrontades during a pursuit, which led to the tragic event.
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
In a frantic rescue operation, 26 individuals were saved, including 24 migrants and two coastguard officers. Some of the rescued individuals sustained serious injuries, with among them seven children and a pregnant woman. The search for more survivors continued through the night, involving four coastguard vessels, a civilian diver team, and a helicopter.
Unclear Circumstances
Details about the exact cause of the crash remain sketchy. However, a coastguard representative mentioned that the migrant boat had turned towards the coastguard vessel after being instructed to reverse course.
Increasingly Dangerous Waters
This tragic incident highlights the perilous journey many migrants undertake, as Greece remains a central route for those fleeing conflicts across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, seeking safety in Europe.
The confirmed death toll rose late on Tuesday after initial reports of four deaths increased to fourteen as more bodies were retrieved.
Conclusion
The situation underscores the ongoing dangers faced by migrants in their search for a better life, and the complexities authorities face in managing such crises. The Chios tragedy calls for renewed attention to the safety measures and policies surrounding these treacherous crossings.
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