Greek Coast Guard personnel rescued 26 migrants from a drifting pneumatic boat south of the island of Crete on Friday. Authorities fear 22 other passengers died during the journey.
A Harrowing Journey
The Hellenic Coast Guard received notification at midday on Friday of a vessel “in a tough situation with foreign passengers on board” approximately 52 nautical miles (96 kilometers) south of Yerápetra, Crete. A vessel from Frontex, the European Union border agency, responded and transferred the 26 rescued individuals – 24 men, one woman and a minor – to a hospital in Heraklion, the island’s capital.
According to statements made by the rescued migrants to Greek authorities, the group departed from Tobruk, Libya, on the evening of March 21st with 48 people aboard, intending to reach Greece. They lost their course and drifted for six days without food or water. During this time, 22 passengers were reportedly thrown overboard by the crew at the order of the two alleged traffickers on board.
Investigation Underway
Port authorities in Heraklion have identified two Sudanese men, aged 19 and 22, as the suspected traffickers. They are currently in judicial custody and will be arraigned on charges of human trafficking, involuntary manslaughter, and illegal entry into the country before Monday, according to reporting from Greek newspaper Ta Nea.
The Greek Coast Guard stated that the migrants’ nationalities have not been disclosed.
On February 23rd, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that at least 606 migrants had died or gone missing in the Mediterranean in just two months, marking the deadliest start to a year since records began in 2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the migrants who were rescued?
The 26 rescued migrants – 24 men, one woman, and a minor – were transferred to a hospital in Heraklion, Crete, for medical attention.
Where did the migrants depart from?
The migrants stated they departed from the port city of Tobruk, Libya, on March 21st.
What charges do the alleged traffickers face?
The two Sudanese men identified as the alleged traffickers face charges of human trafficking, involuntary manslaughter, and illegal entry into the country.
What further steps might be taken to address the ongoing migrant crisis in the Mediterranean?
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