In the aftermath of a tragic incident on December 20th, involving a Hellenic Coast Guard pursuit off the coast of Rhodes, two suspects have retracted their initial confessions related to a migrant smuggling operation. The men, aged 19 and 23, both Turkish nationals, had initially confessed during preliminary questioning that they were involved in the operation for financial reasons.
However, during a court appearance on Tuesday, they recanted these confessions, alleging they were coerced into admitting guilt. The pursuit resulted in a collision between the smuggling vessel and a coast guard patrol boat, leading to the deaths of eight migrants. Reports indicate that some of the victims were struck by the boat’s propeller, and a child is still missing.
The suspects’ change in testimony and the resulting fatalities have triggered a thorough investigation. Authorities are seeking video evidence from the patrol boat’s cameras to gain clarity on the events that unfolded during the deadly confrontation.