The coast guard on Tuesday launched a major search-and-rescue operation east-southeast of the island of Chios, following the sinking of a dinghy carrying a reported 27 foreign nationals.
Greek coast guard recovers bodies of 3 migrants off Chios, Shipping Ministry official says. Another 4 feared missing while 21 have been rescued. The dinghy reportedly sunk after its bottom fell out.
Two coast guard patrol boats, a Super-puma helicopter, a Hellenic Army helicopter, a NATO vessels, three fishing boats and three ships sailing in the vicinity are assisting the search.
Winds of 5-6 Beaufort are blowing in the area.