Migrant Boat Collides with Greek Coast Guard, Leaving Over Dozen Dead

(MENAFN) At least 14 people perished Tuesday night when a speedboat transporting migrants crashed into a Greek Coast Guard patrol vessel near the island of Chios, local authorities confirmed.

The fatal collision unfolded Tuesday evening close to Mirsinidi Beach on Chios as emergency response teams retrieved 14 bodies from surrounding waters following the impact, a public broadcaster reported, citing the Greek Coast Guard.

Wounded migrants—including seven children and two pregnant women—received emergency transport to medical facilities for urgent care.

Two Coast Guard personnel sustained injuries requiring hospitalization: a female officer suffering a concussion and a male officer with an upper limb injury, according to the report.

Four migrants remained in critical condition, battling life-threatening trauma encompassing severe injuries including liver rupture, a collapsed lung, splenic rupture and traumatic brain injuries.

Greek authorities immediately mobilized an extensive search and rescue operation deploying a private vessel carrying civilian divers and a military helicopter outfitted with thermal imaging cameras.

The Defense Ministry confirmed that an Air Force Super Puma helicopter was deployed to join the rescue efforts.

The deadly incident highlights ongoing dangers facing migrants attempting Mediterranean crossings, with Greek waters remaining a primary route for those seeking entry into Europe despite treacherous conditions and heightened patrol activity.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the migrants' nationalities, the speedboat's origin point, or whether criminal investigations into the collision have commenced.

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