MWE Correspondent
Authorities are investigating a tragic incident in which 17 migrants lost their lives after a small vessel capsized in the Mediterranean Sea south of the Greek island of Crete.
The boat, reportedly carrying people attempting to reach Europe, overturned amid rough seas and strong winds. Rescuers described the vessel as overloaded and unstable, making it extremely vulnerable during the stormy conditions.
Local emergency teams, supported by the Greek Coast Guard, rushed to the scene after receiving distress signals. Several survivors were pulled from the water, but the exact number remains unconfirmed. Officials said the rescue operation was hampered by poor visibility and turbulent waters.
Humanitarian groups have condemned the dangerous conditions faced by migrants using this route, noting that the Mediterranean migration corridor remains one of the deadliest transit paths in the world. They continue to call for safer alternatives and increased international support for search-and-rescue operations.
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Greek authorities have opened an investigation to determine the boat’s departure point and whether smugglers were involved in organizing the crossing. Early reports suggest this may be part of a larger network that routinely exploits vulnerable travelers.
The tragedy adds to the long list of fatalities along this migration route, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis and sparking renewed debate on European responsibilities and policies toward migrants.
Officials warned that rough weather is expected to continue, urging both rescuers and coastal communities to remain vigilant as search operations proceed.
