Three migrants were confirmed dead, and many more are feared missing after their boat sank near the Greek island of Samos on Monday. The Greek coastguard reported that the boat, carrying at least 30 migrants, foundered off the rocky shores of Agios Isidoros in the northwestern part of the island. The deceased were all women, according to officials.
The search and rescue operation has so far led to the recovery of five survivors, including a pregnant woman and a minor, who were immediately taken to the hospital for medical checks. Their conditions remain undisclosed. The coastguard continues its efforts to locate the remaining missing individuals, though challenging weather conditions have slowed the operation.
Four vessels and a naval helicopter have been deployed in the search. Strong winds in the area have complicated the rescue efforts, but authorities are determined to continue searching both the sea and nearby land in hopes of finding more survivors. A local resident alerted the coastguard after witnessing some migrants reaching the shore, prompting the search.
This tragic incident is part of a larger, ongoing migration crisis in the Mediterranean. In recent years, Greece has served as a major entry point for migrants and refugees attempting to reach Europe. In 2015 and 2016, nearly one million people arrived on Greek islands, many of them fleeing conflict and poverty in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Though the number of migrants crossing into Greece had dropped significantly in the past few years, the influx began to rise again last year, putting pressure on Greek authorities. Migrants often risk their lives on overcrowded and unsafe boats, hoping to find safety and better opportunities in Europe.
The perilous journey is often met with tragedy, as seen in Monday’s sinking. Many of those fleeing war and hardship face numerous dangers, from violent weather conditions to human traffickers who care little for their safety. This latest incident underscores the risks many migrants are willing to take in search of a better life.
Greek authorities have been criticized for their handling of the migration crisis, with concerns over inadequate resources and response efforts during such emergencies. As search-and-rescue operations continue, the death toll may rise as authorities race against time and worsening weather.