A major maritime tragedy unfolded in the waters south of Crete, where 18 migrants were found dead after an overturned and partially submerged boat was discovered 26 nautical miles southwest of Chrissi Island. The vessel was first spotted by a Turkish-flagged cargo ship, prompting an immediate large-scale rescue operation.
According to the Hellenic Coast Guard, two migrants were rescued alive during the operation. The bodies of the 18 deceased have been recovered and will be transported by Coast Guard vessels to Ierapetra.
A rapid multi-agency response was launched, involving two Coast Guard vessels, a Frontex patrol boat, three nearby commercial ships, a Super Puma helicopter, and a Frontex aircraft, all deployed in the search for potential survivors.
Authorities stated that the circumstances under which the boat capsized or sank remain unclear. Based on available evidence, the Coast Guard reports no additional missing persons and has officially concluded the search and rescue operation.
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