Greek Coast Guard vessel collides with migrant boat in Aegean Sea, 14 killed

A Greek Coast Guard Vessel Collides with a Migrant Boat

The incident occurred in the Aegean Sea near the island of Chios, specifically off the coast of the Mersinidi area. At least 14 people were killed when a migrant boat collided with a Greek Coast Guard vessel on Tuesday evening.

Rescue Efforts: Twenty-six individuals, including two Coast Guard officers and 24 migrants, were rescued and taken to a hospital in Chios. Among the injured are seven children and a pregnant woman, who required immediate medical attention.

The collision took place after the migrant boat manoeuvred toward a Coast Guard vessel that had instructed it to turn back. A search-and-rescue operation is currently underway, involving patrol boats, a helicopter, and divers from the Greek Coast Guard.

Context: Greece has been a major transit point for migrants and refugees seeking to reach Europe, particularly from regions like the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In recent years, Greece has implemented stricter migration policies, including increased border controls and sea patrols, which have drawn criticism for potentially violating human rights.

These measures have led to allegations of human rights violations, with the European Union's border agency reviewing 12 cases involving Greece. A notable incident in 2023 involved a shipwreck where hundreds of migrants died after witnesses claimed the Coast Guard attempted to tow their vessel, further highlighting concerns over treatment of migrants.

The Coast Guard has denied any violations and maintains that all operations are conducted in accordance with international law and human rights standards.