CRETE: In an incident near the southeastern coast of Crete, Greece, a rubber boat carrying migrants capsized, resulting in the deaths of 18 individuals, while two people were rescued alive and are currently receiving medical attention.
The incident occurred on Saturday near the island of Crete, where the vessel, carrying at least 20 migrants, overturned in the rough sea. The passengers were reportedly attempting to reach European shores from North Africa when the accident occurred.
A Turkish commercial ship passing south of the island of Crisi spotted the distressed boat and immediately alerted Greek authorities, prompting a rapid response.
Rescue and search operations were launched involving one ship, one aircraft, one helicopter, and three commercial vessels, all actively searching for additional survivors and recovering bodies from the sea.
Authorities confirmed that the recovered bodies are being transported to refrigerated facilities where identification processes will be carried out. In response to the tragedy, security measures in the area have been heightened, and search operations intensified to ensure the safety of any potential survivors.
Preliminary reports suggest that the capsized vessel had entered Greek territorial waters from North Africa. Local authorities continue to coordinate with rescue teams to manage the aftermath of the accident and provide aid to the survivors.
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