Crete: 169 migrants detected along southern coastlines

Greek authorities and Frontex have detected a total of 169 migrants across various maritime and land areas along the southern coast of Crete on October 12 and 13, 2026.

In one incident near Agia Galini, a Frontex vessel assisted a boat in distress, rescuing 75 individuals (74 men and one woman). A separate operation in Koutsouras beach led to the detection of 50 migrants, who were subsequently transported to the port of Ierapetra.

During these operations, three individuals were arrested on suspicion of human smuggling, including two 16-year-olds. One South Sudanese national was apprehended following the rescue of 51 migrants who had reportedly traveled from Tobruk, Libya, paying between $500 and $2,000 USD. Another 18-year-old South Sudanese national was arrested after 63 migrants arrived near Arvi, having traveled from Bardia, Libya, with fees ranging from 13,000 to 15,000 Libyan dinars. Investigations are being conducted by the Heraklion and Ierapetra Port Authorities.