Deadly collision injures coast guard officers
A migrant boat collided with a Greek coast guard vessel near Chios in the Aegean Sea, leaving 14 migrants dead. Two coast guard officers were injured and rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Coast guard officials said they spotted a dinghy carrying migrants toward Chios, just a few miles from the Turkish coast. They ordered the boat to turn back. However, the smugglers steered their vessel toward the coast guard ship, causing the collision.
Rescue operations save survivors
Authorities reported that 24 migrants survived the accident. Witnesses said about 30 to 35 people were on board. The nationalities of the victims are still unclear.
Greece launched a coordinated search and rescue operation immediately. Coast guard vessels, private boats, and divers joined the effort. Officials said they continue to search for anyone still missing.
Greece’s role in Europe’s migration route
Greece has long served as a key gateway to Europe for migrants from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. During Europe’s migration crisis in 2015-2016, nearly one million people landed on Greek islands, including Chios, after crossing from Turkey.
In recent years, migrant arrivals have decreased. The Greek government strengthened border controls, added fences, and increased sea patrols. Since 2019, the center-right administration has emphasized stricter enforcement to prevent illegal crossings.
Criticism over treatment of migrants
Despite stricter controls, Greece faces criticism for how it handles migrants arriving by sea. In 2023, a shipwreck killed hundreds of migrants. Witnesses claimed that the coast guard’s attempt to tow a trawler contributed to the disaster.
The EU border agency reported last year that it was reviewing 12 potential human rights violations by Greece. Some cases involved migrants being pushed back while seeking asylum. Greece has repeatedly denied violating human rights or forcibly returning asylum seekers.
Safety concerns and humanitarian challenges
The Chios collision highlights ongoing dangers in the Aegean Sea. Humanitarian groups are calling for stronger oversight of smugglers and official operations. Authorities continue search and rescue efforts and warn of the high risks in these busy maritime routes.
The incident also underscores the challenges Greek authorities face. They must balance strict border security with humanitarian obligations. Migrants continue to risk their lives in dangerous crossings, while Greece navigates international scrutiny and safety responsibilities
