Chios, Greece. Autopsy documents seen by Reuters show most of the 15 Afghan migrants killed last week off the Greek island of Chios died of severe head injuries rather than drowning. Greek authorities have opened a criminal investigation into the February 3 collision between a coast guard vessel and a migrant dinghy.
Investigation into February 3 collision
The collision, described as one of Greece’s deadliest migrant accidents in years, occurred when a coast guard vessel struck a dinghy carrying about 39 people, causing it to capsize.
The coast guard said the migrant boat was travelling without navigation lights and ignored warnings to stop, and that the dinghy abruptly changed course and hit the patrol vessel.
Testimonies from five survivors reviewed by Reuters contradict the official account, saying the coast guard did not offer any prior warning and that the dinghy did not change course. Divers later found bodies inside the boat.
Autopsy findings and injuries reported
The autopsy findings are expected to sharpen investigators’ focus on the force and nature of the impact.
One court document seen by Reuters on Wednesday stated: “Cause of death: Severe cranial and brain injuries,” with other documents also citing accompanying chest injuries. Another document cited “cranial and brain injuries and subsequent drowning”.
Coast guard photos taken after the collision showed mild scrapes on its vessel. Three coast guard crew members and 24 migrants were injured.
Detention and official response
A 31-year-old Moroccan survivor has been detained pending trial on charges including migrant smuggling and causing the deadly crash. He denies the accusations.
Coast guard officials have declined comment while the official inquiry is under way.
Greece’s position on migration operations
Greece, which was at the front line of Europe’s migration crisis in 2015-2016, says it respects international law and human rights and that its coast guard has saved tens of thousands of people.
What do you think investigators should prioritize when examining the impact and warnings given before the collision?
