At least 17 migrants have lost their lives after a sailboat sank in rough seas south of the Greek island of Crete, Greek authorities confirmed on Saturday. The tragedy unfolded approximately 50 nautical miles off the coast in the southern sea, marking one of the deadliest maritime migration incidents in the region in recent months.
The half-submerged vessel was first spotted by a passing cargo ship, which immediately alerted the Greek Coast Guard. Rescue teams were swiftly deployed to the area, including patrol vessels, aircraft, and a navy frigate. When responders reached the scene, the bodies of 17 people were recovered from inside the hull of the damaged sailboat.
2 men were found alive in the water, clinging to a lifebuoy. They were rescued and sent to a hospital in Crete for medical treatment.
Officials stated that the nationalities of the victims have not yet been officially identified. Early assessments indicate that the boat was a small sailboat, which is believed to have capsized during a period of harsh weather and unstable sea conditions. Strong winds and rough waves were reported in the area at the time of the incident.
An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the sinking and whether human trafficking networks may have been involved. Maritime experts note that overcrowded and ill-equipped boats continue to pose serious risks to migrants attempting dangerous sea crossings.
This latest disaster underscores the ongoing dangers faced by migrants traveling across the Mediterranean in search of safety and better opportunities. Greek authorities reiterated their commitment to search-and-rescue operations while also calling for stronger international cooperation to address irregular migration and smuggling activities.
Search operations for the missing individual remain active as conditions allow.
