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[INTERNATIONAL] · Greece, Türkiye · 66 sources

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Greece: 12 migrants die in separate shipwrecks near Lesbos and Samos

Twelve migrants, including an infant, died in two separate maritime accidents off the Greek islands of Lesbos and Samos within a few hours.

The first incident occurred south of Lesbos near Agrielia during a pursuit. A speedboat carrying Syrian and Palestinian migrants struck the port side of a Greek Coast Guard vessel and capsized. Six people died, identified as four men, one woman, and an infant. Eight others were rescued, including a 37-year-old Turkish national who was arrested on suspicion of human smuggling.

The second accident took place north of Samos when a speedboat capsized during maneuvers. This incident resulted in six deaths, consisting of five men and one woman. Approximately 14 to 15 people were rescued, including an Iranian national suspected of being a smuggler. Authorities continued search operations for missing passengers.

Greek Maritime Affairs Minister Vasilis Kikilias expressed sorrow and rage, blaming the deaths on the criminal actions of smugglers and declaring a policy of zero tolerance. The incidents highlight the ongoing dangers of the Eastern Mediterranean migration route.

Entities

Agrielia · European Union · Frontex · Greek Coast Guard · Hellenic Coast Guard · Hellenic Search and Rescue Coordination Center · Joint Search and Rescue Coordination Centre · Lesbos · Lesvos · Mytilene · Mytilene Hospital · Samos

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