Greece coast: Eight migrants drown during escape

At least eight persons have perished off the coast of Greece, after the coast guard pursued a boat carrying refugees and migrants in the Aegean Sea.

According to authorities, the driver lost control of the boat while attempting to escape, resulting in the deaths of at least eight persons.

It was announced on Friday that the 18 people had been rescued after the speedboat capsized while trying to escape a Greek patrol vessel close to the island of Rhodes.

According to a Coast Guard statement, the boat’s driver “lost control,” resulting in multiple people falling overboard.

While a Hellenic Air Force chopper looked for survivors, Coast Guard vessels recovered eight bodies.

According to source, the number of passengers is still unknown.

On the eastern coast of the Greek island of Rhodes, close to Afandou Beach, Greek officials reported spotting the ship as it tried to disembark passengers.

During the pursuit, the boat struck the coast guard’s vessel, according to Greek media site Kathimerini, which also stated that the boat’s driver was taken into custody.

According to the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, the number of migrant and refugee arrivals in Greece has increased by 25% this year, with a 30% increase in Rhodes and the southeast Aegean.

Report has it that two boats sank in separate instances on the islands of Samos and Lesbos in late November, killing nine people, including two mothers and six children.

Earlier this month, a sinking on the island of Crete claimed the lives of five more people.

Greece has come under fire for allegedly taking a more antagonistic stance against migrants in recent years.

Asylum seekers and humanitarian organizations have accused its coast guard on multiple occasions of capsizing boats by attempting to pull them or stop them from disembarking on its shores.

Additionally, the European Union discovered evidence of human rights violations, including claims of sexual and other forms of assault against children, at the newly built, EU-funded refugee camps on the Greek Aegean islands.

Greece

Greece is a country located in southeastern Europe.

It is bordered by Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey.

Greece is a peninsular country; surrounded by water on three sides.

It has a vast array of islands, with the largest being Crete.

Record has it that Greece has a rich history that spans over 4,000 years.

According to reports, the country is home to some of the oldest and most impressive ancient ruins, such as the Acropolis and Ancient Agora.

Greece is reportedly the birthplace of Western civilization, philosophy, and democracy.

Many famous philosophers, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, were said to be born in Greece.

Greek culture

Greek culture is known for its vibrant arts, music, and dance.

Traditional Greek music and dance, such as the syrtaki and zeibekiko, are an integral part of Greek culture.

Greek cuisine is also famous for its Mediterranean diet, featuring olive oil, fresh vegetables, and seafood.

Some popular Greek dishes include gyro, moussaka, and Greek salad.

Tourism plays a significant role in Greece’s economy, records say.

The country attracts millions of visitors each year, drawn to its rich history, stunning landscapes, and beautiful islands, according to reports.

Greece is also a significant producer of agricultural products, such as olives, olive oil, and grapes.

The country has a long maritime tradition and is one of the world’s largest ship-owning nations.

Some fun facts about Greece

Some fun facts about Greece include that it has more islands than any other country in the world.

The Greek alphabet is also the basis for many languages, including English.

Greece is home to some of the oldest and most impressive ancient ruins, and its cuisine is known for its healthy Mediterranean diet, food critiques say.

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