The chief of the Greek Coast Guard and three senior officers will face trial over the sinking of a migrant boat in 2023 that left nearly 650 people dead. The decision comes after survivors and human rights groups pushed for a new investigation. A naval court of appeals reopened the case, saying there was enough evidence to move forward with criminal charges.
The Adriana, a fishing trawler carrying as many as 750 migrants, sank off the coast of Pylos on June 13, 2023. Many on board were fleeing conflict and hardship in countries like Egypt, Syria, Pakistan, and Palestine. The tragedy is considered one of the deadliest migrant shipwrecks in Greece’s history and shocked people across Europe.
Survivors say the boat was in distress for hours before it sank, and they accuse the coast guard of responding too late. Some also claim that the coast guard’s towing attempt caused the ship to tip and eventually capsize. However, the coast guard denies these claims, saying those on the boat refused help and insisted on continuing their journey toward Italy.
Why is the Greek coast guard facing charges?
Survivors and rights groups argue that the officers did not act quickly or safely enough to save lives.
A prosecutor now believes there is evidence suggesting possible negligence or mistakes in how the rescue was handled.
Human rights organizations, including those representing survivors and families of victims, said the new charges are an important step toward accountability. They stressed that hundreds of people, including children, lost their lives because help did not come soon enough.
Only 104 people survived the sinking, and just 82 bodies were recovered, according to the United Nations. Most of the victims remain missing at sea, leaving many families without answers or closure. The International Organization for Migration says the Central Mediterranean route remains the deadliest migration route in the world.
In 2024 alone, more than 3,500 people were reported dead or missing while attempting the journey. Over 1,000 deaths have already been recorded this year. Many migrants continue to risk their lives because they see no safe alternatives for escaping war, poverty, or persecution.
The case against the Coast Guard is still ongoing, and a full trial is expected. For many survivors, this is not just a legal matter but a fight for justice for the lives lost at sea.