Boat Sinking in Aegean Sea Near Lesbos Results in Multiple Fatalities and Rescue Operations
On Thursday, the Greek Coast Guard confirmed the sinking of a boat carrying migrants in the Aegean Sea, situated between mainland Turkey and the Greek island of Lesbos. The tragic incident has led to at least seven casualties, including two children, as per the latest reports.
The unauthorized vessel was en route from the Turkish coast towards Lesbos when it was spotted by a Greek Coast Guard patrol vessel in the early hours of the day. The Greek authorities have managed to rescue at least 23 individuals from the wreckage, with Anadolu news agency reporting that these survivors have been transported to a local hospital.
The precise reason behind the capsizing remains unknown, and details about the total number of individuals aboard the boat and their countries of origin are yet to be ascertained.
Subsequent Actions and On-going Search and Rescue Operations
An ongoing search and rescue operation combines the efforts of three coast guard vessels, an air force helicopter, and a neighboring boat, all attempting to locate any additional survivors or casualties of the disaster.
Embedded Video: The Situation of Refugees in Lesbos
A video documentary titled "Greece: More Refugees in Lesbos" provides further insight into the ongoing situation of refugee influx and its challenges on the island of Lesbos. To view this video, it’s recommended to enable JavaScript and ensure your web browser supports HTML5 video.
The Purpose of the Voyage to Greece
Greece’s islands are frequently the initial point of entry into the European Union for migrants from around the globe, many of whom are fleeing conflict and economic hardship in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Statistics indicate that in the previous year, approximately 54,000 individuals arrived in Greece, a significant majority of whom came by sea.
Refugee Support Aegean (RSA) reported that during 2024, at least 171 people have lost their lives or disappeared while attempting to cross the Aegean Sea.
Editor’s Note:
This content was edited by Wesley Dockery.
