Greek coast guard intercepts migrant boat off Crete

A vessel carrying roughly 60 migrants was discovered south of the Greek island of Crete during Sunday lunchtime. The boat was first spotted by a Frontex surveillance aircraft and then surrounded by a Greek coast‑guard ship. All migrants were transferred to the port of Ierapetra for processing.

Greek authorities reported a continued decline in maritime arrivals in the first half of 2026, with total illegal arrivals down 27% year‑on‑year. Forced repatriations rose 41% to 1,292 people, while voluntary returns increased 18% to 870. Since February, about 599 migrants have chosen to return voluntarily. The government attributes these trends to its "lockdown or return" policy aimed at curbing irregular migration.