Greece: 17 migrants drown south of Crete

Greek authorities stated on December 8 that at least 17 migrants have died attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea in an inflatable boat.

According to Africa News, the boat was found on December 6, half-sunken, 36 miles off the coast of Lerapetra, by a passing Turkish merchant vessel.

Two Egyptian men were rescued alive and have been sent to the hospital. They suffered the symptoms of hypothermia, starvation and dehydration.

Greece is one of the countries that serves as a common entry point into Europe for people fleeing conflict and poverty, especially from the Middle East and Africa, who undertake dangerous journeys to seek a better life.

On July 6, Greek authorities rescued over 430 migrants near its southern islands, most of whom are believed to have departed from Libya. At the time, the Greek government also released footage of migrants jumping from a speedboat into the water before reaching Crete.

Libya remains a key departure point for migrants fleeing conflict across the region, including those escaping the civil war in Sudan. The route has become increasingly dangerous for Sudanese refugees, yet many continue to make the journey, believing the risks are outweighed by their need to flee the violence at home.

As reported by Maghrebi, since the civil war broke out in 2023 in Sudan, more than 4 million Sudanese have been displaced, with Libya emerging as a primary corridor for those attempting to flee the country.

The risk that migrants take with this crossing is dangerous and can cause many threats, like being detained, abuse by local authorities and militia, and even death.

Three children also died, attempting to cross the sea from Libya to Italy in May. The children were between 3 and 4 years old.

Migrants have been attempting the dangerous sea crossing from North Africa to Europe since at least 2014, with an estimated 25,000 deaths or disappearances recorded along the route during that period.

Libya remains a central point of departure, and authorities there have expressed concern about the country’s role as a gateway for migrants attempting to reach Europe. While Libya is not the only country of origin for such crossings, across November and December there has been a notable surge in arrivals from Libyan shores to the Greek island of Crete.

Africa News, Maghrebi.org