A fishing boat carrying migrants capsized off the southern coast of Greece, resulting in at least 59 deaths and dozens missing.
On the 14th (local time), a fishing boat carrying migrants capsized in the sea southwest of the Peloponnese, Greece, resulting in numerous fatalities. Rescue operations for survivors are underway. The photo shows Greek emergency responders assisting a survivor. Photo by EPA Yonhap News
On the 14th (local time), major foreign media including the AP reported this, citing Greek rescue authorities.
According to authorities, a fishing boat carrying dozens of migrants capsized in strong winds about 75 km southwest of the Peloponnese coast in Greece. The boat is believed to have departed from the Tobruk area in eastern Libya heading towards Italy with migrants on board.
Six coast guard vessels, one naval escort ship, one military transport plane, and one military helicopter were deployed for the rescue operation. Authorities reported that 59 deaths have been confirmed so far, and 104 people have been rescued.
The day before, the Italian coast guard reportedly informed Greek authorities and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency that the vessel was approaching.
Libya is considered a major transit point for African migrants trying to reach Europe to escape civil war or poverty. As a result, dangerous voyages crossing the Mediterranean by boat are frequent.
The Libyan authorities' large-scale crackdown on illegal residents is also a reason why migrants forcibly board boats. In March, Italian intelligence agencies analyzed that about 700,000 people in Libya are currently attempting to illegally migrate to Italy by crossing the Mediterranean.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
