Migrant shipwreck in Crete leaves at least 18 dead

A tragic shipwreck with migrants has occurred off Lerapetra in Crete, 26 nautical miles south of Chrysi Island, when a boat carrying migrants capsized.

The boat was found half-submerged by a Turkish-flagged cargo ship.

According to an update from the Greek authorities, two Coast Guard ships, a Frontex vessel, three coastal vessels, as well as a Super Puma helicopter and a Frontex aircraft, immediately rushed to the spot to locate any missing persons.

Two occupants were rescued, but 18 people have been found dead.

There are no other missing persons, as the search and rescue operation has now been completed and no evidence of additional occupants has emerged.

The circumstances under which the boat capsized or sank remain unclear.

Greece is a major entry point into the European Union for people fleeing conflict and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and Asia and fatal accidents are a common occurrence.

The short but perilous journey from Turkey’s coast to nearby Greek islands in inflatable dinghies or small boats, often in poor conditions, used to be the major route until increased patrols and alleged pushbacks reduced crossing attempts.

In recent months, arrivals from Libya to Crete have surged.