Greek Patrols Rescue Nearly 80 Migrants Attempting Aegean Sea Crossing in Inflatable Dinghies

In response to the increasing number of perilous journeys, Greek patrol boats in the eastern Aegean Sea have carried out rescues of almost 80 migrants who were attempting to cross from Turkey in inflatable dinghies.

This comes as part of a surge in such risky attempts.

Over the past weekend, the coast guard managed to rescue an additional 200 individuals who had embarked from Turkey in similar boats facilitated by smugglers, all destined for Greece's neighbouring eastern Aegean islands.

A statement issued by the coast guard indicated that 40 migrants were saved from a drifting dinghy off the coast of Lesbos island on Monday. Shortly thereafter, another 36 individuals were rescued from a separate fragile vessel nearby. All 76 individuals were subsequently transported to a local reception centre.