18 Migrants Dead After Boat Capsizes Near Crete; Rescue Efforts Ongoing

Athens: Authorities on Saturday reported that 18 migrants died after a boat capsized near the Greek island of Crete while attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea. The vessel, carrying migrants trying to enter the Mediterranean, was found partially submerged by a Turkish commercial ship that passed the area on Saturday. Two people were rescued, while search operations continue for the others.

Greece is a major entry point into the European Union for migrants fleeing regions in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Similar incidents have occurred in the area before. Small inflatable dinghies and boats traveling from the Turkish coast to nearby Greek islands frequently result in accidents. Authorities noted that arrivals from Libya to Crete have increased in recent months.

It is not yet clear where the boat involved in Saturday’s accident originated. A search operation is underway involving a vessel and aircraft from the European border agency Frontex, Greek Coast Guard helicopters, and three commercial ships.