A Greek Ombudsman has recommended disciplinary measures against eight coastguard officers for alleged negligence in their duties during one of Greece’s deadliest migrant shipwrecks in 2023, which claimed hundreds of lives.
The investigation, the first to address the circumstances of the tragedy, focused on the sinking of a trawler off the southwestern coast of Pylos on June 14, 2023. The vessel, Adriana, was carrying around 750 people when it capsized and sank in full view of Greek coastguard officials. The trawler had departed Libya for Italy and had been monitored by the coastguard for nearly 12 hours before the disaster occurred in international waters. Only 104 survivors were rescued.
In a report issued Monday, Ombudsman Andreas Pottakis stated there were “clear indications” that eight senior coastguard officers may have failed in their search and rescue duties, which contributed to endangering the lives of those on board the Adriana.
The Greek coastguard has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Coastguard authorities have consistently denied any wrongdoing in their handling of the case, which has raised significant concerns about the European Union’s migration policies.
The Ombudsman launched the investigation in June 2023 after the Greek coastguard declined his requests to conduct an internal inquiry. Approximately 10 officers, including the Commandant, were summoned to testify as suspects in the investigation.
According to the Ombudsman’s office, Pottakis’ findings have been submitted to Greece’s Shipping Minister for further action.
A statement from Pottakis’ office emphasized that transparency and accountability in the investigation were crucial for ensuring respect for the rule of law, particularly in matters involving violations of the right to life, health, and physical integrity.
In addition, a local naval court, which initiated a criminal investigation last year, has completed its preliminary investigation and referred the case to a chief prosecutor, according to lawyers representing the victims and survivors, who reviewed the legal files last month.