Crete, Greece. Twenty-two migrants have died off the coast of Greece after spending six days at sea in a rubber boat, according to a statement from the Greek coast guard. Twenty-six people were rescued by a Frontex vessel off the island of Crete.
Rescue operation off Crete
The Greek coast guard said the survivors were rescued late on Friday by a vessel belonging to Frontex, the European border agency. The statement said the passengers lost their orientation and remained at sea for six days without water and food.
Account from rescued migrants
Rescued migrants told authorities that 22 people died while at sea, the statement said. It added that the bodies were thrown overboard on the orders of one of the traffickers.
Greece’s role in Mediterranean migration
Greece has long been a favoured gateway to Europe for migrants and refugees from the Middle East, Africa and Asia. In 2015-16, it was at the frontline of Europe’s migration crisis and nearly 1 million people landed on its islands, mainly from Turkey.
Ongoing crossings and policy changes
Many people are still attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea in boats, and accidents are not rare. Greece has since toughened its stance on migrants, reinforcing border controls with fences and sea patrols.
What steps should authorities take to reduce deaths during Mediterranean crossings?
