Greek authorities have rescued 202 irregular migrants off the southern island of Crete while they were attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea from Libya to enter Europe. Arriving in multiple wooden boats within less than 48 hours, a significant portion of the rescued individuals are citizens of Bangladesh and Sudan, along with several Egyptian nationals.
According to the Greek newspaper Demokratia, the continuous arrival of migrants via this perilous Mediterranean route has placed severe strain on local administrative bodies and reception centers across Crete Island.
Reports indicate that a surveillance aircraft belonging to Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, first spotted one of the vessels. A joint operation involving Greek Coast Guard patrol boats and a local fishing vessel subsequently safely escorted the migrants to temporary holding facilities at the ports of Ierapetra and Heraklion.
Authorities are currently providing basic medical care, completing formal registrations, and carrying out identity verification procedures. Greek officials noted that victims lured by human trafficking networks operating along the Libyan coastline continue to risk their lives using this hazardous Mediterranean route to reach Europe.
