Migrant boat involved in fatal Sakız (Chios) collision still missing after prosecutor-led search
According to Greek media reports, a search operation conducted today in the presence of a prosecutor failed to recover the wreckage of the vessel involved in the deadly incident, which resulted in the deaths of 15 migrants.
Search Efforts Yield No Results
The operation focused on the maritime area where the collision occurred earlier this month. However, investigators were unable to locate the remains of the migrant boat.
The collision reportedly took place during the night of February 3, when a vessel belonging to the Hellenic Coast Guard struck the boat carrying irregular migrants. The impact caused passengers to fall into the sea.
Autopsy Findings Raise Questions
Forensic examinations have revealed that only one of the 15 victims died from drowning. The remaining victims were found to have sustained severe injuries to their bodies and heads.
According to forensic authorities, the primary cause of death in most cases was attributed to the force of the collision rather than drowning.
Casualties and Ongoing Concerns
In total, 15 people lost their lives and 24 others were injured in the incident. Authorities have also indicated that additional individuals may still be missing.
The tragedy adds to ongoing concerns over migrant crossings in the Aegean Sea, particularly along routes near eastern Greek islands such as Chios, which remain key entry points for irregular migration into the European Union.
Investigations into the circumstances of the collision are ongoing.
