One dead, 25 missing after boat capsizes south of Gavdos
Overnight search operations 38 nautical miles south of Gavdos found no further survivors after a boat carrying migrants partially sank, leaving one person dead and 25 others missing, Greek authorities said.
According to testimonies from the 51 people rescued, a total of 77 people were on board the vessel. Searches are now focused on locating those still unaccounted for. One person has been found unconscious and is considered dead, while the survivors are reported to be in good health.
Rescue operation underway
The search-and-rescue operation is being coordinated by the Hellenic Coast Guard’s Joint Rescue Coordination Centre and remains in full progress. Four merchant ships passing through the area are taking part, along with Frontex vessels and aircraft and a Hellenic Coast Guard helicopter.
The 51 survivors have already been picked up and are currently safe aboard the vessels involved in the operation. Under the current plan, they are to be transferred to Crete, with destinations at Paleochora and Agia Galini respectively, where standard procedures will follow.
Winds hamper search
Northwesterly winds of force 5 on the Beaufort scale are affecting the area, making the search more difficult. Authorities said the operation is expected to continue on Monday, as crews attempt to locate any survivors or evidence that could help find those still missing across a wide stretch of sea south of Gavdos.
