Greek authorities have recently announced that the victims and survivors of the capsized boat in the waters of Greece are citizens of Afghanistan.
International media, citing Greek officials, reported that this incident occurred on Friday, December 20, on the eastern island of Rhodes, near the Turkish border.
The Associated Press reported that the boat capsized as a result of a maneuver by a ship trying to escape from a patrol vessel, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals.
Additionally, the Greek Coast Guard stated yesterday that a total of 18 migrants (12 men, three women, and three minors), all of whom are Afghan citizens, were rescued. It has also been reported that the deceased were from Afghanistan.
Officials mentioned that some of the migrants were hospitalized, with one in critical condition.
Two Turkish citizens, aged 12 and 19, were arrested as suspected traffickers.
The report noted that the Greek Coast Guard is searching for survivors or additional victims.
The sinking near Rhodes marks the second deadly incident involving migrant drownings in the past week.
According to Greek government information, it is expected that the number of migrants traveling illegally to Greece this year will exceed 60,000, with Syrians making up the largest group, followed by Afghan citizens, Egyptians, Eritreans, and Palestinians.
Afghan citizens make their way to Turkey for migration to Europe, primarily traveling through Greece to reach European countries.
