Crete migration: Over 200 migrants intercepted in several hours

Over 200 migrants were intercepted near the island of Crete within a few hours between Friday midnight and Saturday morning. Reports indicate multiple vessels were detected, including a boat with 62 people south of Heraklion and another with 57 people near the island of Gavdos. Subsequent groups of 49 and 47 individuals were also identified.

Crete has become a primary route for migrants traveling from the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and Africa toward Greece and Europe. Approximately 14,000 migrants have reached Crete this year, typically departing from eastern Libya. According to United Nations data, Greece has seen nearly 26,000 migrant arrivals this year, the highest figure among European Union member states.