Greek officials said Saturday that at least 18 migrants lost their lives when their inflatable boat overturned south of Crete as they attempted to cross the Mediterranean, while two people were rescued and a search for more survivors continues.
The half-sunken boat was located Saturday by a passing Turkish merchant vessel, authorities said. Two survivors were rescued and a rescue operation to find more was ongoing.
Greece is a major entry point into the European Union for people fleeing conflict and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and Asia and f atal accidents are a common occurrence.
The short but perilous journey from Türkiye's coast to nearby Greek islands in inflatable dinghies or small boats, often in poor conditions, used to be the major route until increased patrols and alleged pushbacks reduced crossing attempts. In recent months, arrivals from Libya to Crete have surged.
Authorities have not yet determined where the boat came from.
A ship and a plane from European border agency Frontex, a Greek Coast Guard helicopter and three merchant vessels are taking part in the search operation.
