A rescue operation by Greek authorities in the eastern Aegean Sea has turned into a large marijuana bust.
A Greek coast guard statement says a Turkish-flagged yacht that issued a distress call near the island of Nisyros, situated between Tilos and Kos was found to be carrying roughly 700 kilograms of marijuana.
All three Turkish men on board were arrested.
The yacht's crew radioed for help late Thursday, citing engine failure. Greek authorities sent a coast guard launch to look for the vessel. A freighter that had been diverted to help located the sailboat.
The statement says the yacht was taken to Nisyros, where a search early Friday turned up the marijuana cargo.
It has not been confirmed where the yacht had been heading.
