Turkish Coast Guard Alleges Harassment of Fishing Vessel by Greek Asset

The Turkish Coast Guard has accused a Greek Coast Guard vessel of harassing a Turkish fishing boat near the Zürafa lighthouse off the coast of Gökçeada, Turkey on July 11, 2024.

In an official statement, the Turkish Coast Guard claimed the Greek vessel approached the fishing vessel "Kizilelma-1" at high speed, striking its front left side and causing material damage. The incident, which occurred at approximately 11:25 am local time, reportedly left crew members with minor injuries from broken glass.

Following the alleged collision, the Greek vessel reportedly left the area. Though four Turkish Coast Guard vessels were dispatched, they found no trace of the Greek asset upon arrival. The damaged fishing vessel was then towed to the port of Gökçeada (Imvros).

The Turkish Coast Guard statement emphasized their ongoing commitment to safeguarding Turkish maritime interests within their jurisdiction, stating they remain active 24/7.

The incident occurred near the Zürafa lighthouse, situated approximately six nautical miles east of the Greek island of Samothraki and ten nautical miles north of the Turkish island of Imvros.