16 refugees drown in waters between Turkey and Greece

Sixteen migrants lost their lives after two boats sank in the waters between Turkey and Greece, according to officials.

Authorities in Turkey and Greece have confirmed that at least 16 people have died after two migrant boats sank in the Aegean Sea. The tragedy occurred between the two countries, highlighting the continuing dangers faced by migrants seeking to reach Europe.

The Greek Coast Guard reported that 66 migrants were aboard the two boats, which sank on Thursday, April 3. Among the survivors, 23 people, including 11 children and 4 women, were rescued from a small 5-meter boat.

Unfortunately, seven bodies were recovered from the water, including the remains of three women and two girls. A teenage girl remains missing, and her fate is yet to be determined.

Local authorities in the Turkish city of Çanakkale confirmed that a separate boat disaster resulted in the deaths of at least nine people. Rescue teams managed to save 25 individuals, and a search for a missing person is ongoing.

The incident underscores the growing number of migrants attempting dangerous crossings to Europe, with over 54,000 refugees traveling via the Eastern Mediterranean route last year. The UN reported 125 migrant deaths along this route in 2024.

The issue has raised concerns about the safety of migrants and the role of security forces in blocking migration. It also highlights the need for international cooperation to address the challenges faced by refugees in these regions.

The post 16 refugees drown in waters between Turkey and Greece appeared first on Khaama Press.