Emergency teams in Croatia have rescued about 30 migrants after their boats capsized while trying to cross the Sava River near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The incident happened late at night as the group attempted to move through a flooded area between the villages of Štitar and Babina Greda. Heavy rainfall had caused the river to overflow, turning the surrounding forest into a dangerous and waterlogged zone.
Authorities received an emergency alert in the early hours, prompting a large rescue operation. Around 100 responders, including police, firefighters, civil protection teams, and the Red Cross, worked through the night to locate and save those stranded in the flooded terrain.
According to Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, the boats overturned after hitting a submerged, marshy section of the river. Despite the difficult conditions, all rescued migrants survived the incident.
Several of the migrants suffered from hypothermia after spending hours in cold water. Eight individuals were taken to hospitals in nearby towns for treatment, while others were moved to a police station for identification and further checks.
Officials said the group mainly included people from countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, many of whom are traveling along the Balkan route in hopes of reaching other parts of Europe.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine how the crossing was organized and whether smuggling networks were involved in the journey.
The Sava River has become a known crossing point for migrants trying to enter the European Union. However, it is also one of the most dangerous routes, especially during periods of flooding and poor weather.
Recent data from the International Organization for Migration shows that hundreds of migrants have died or gone missing along the Balkan route over the years, often due to harsh environmental conditions.
While rescue efforts in this case were successful, the incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by migrants attempting dangerous journeys across rivers, forests, and remote border areas in search of safety and better opportunities.