Major accident: Migrant boat collides with Greek Coast Guard ship, 14 dead; many missing

Greece (The Uttam Hindu): A major accident occurred near the eastern Aegean island of Chios in Greece when a speedboat carrying migrants collided with a vessel of the Greek Coast Guard. At least 14 people lost their lives in the incident, while several others are still missing.

According to the Greek Coast Guard, 24 people were rescued and taken to hospital. Two Coast Guard officers were also injured in the collision. Officials said it is not yet clear how many people were on board the speedboat at the time of the accident.

Rescue operations are still ongoing. Four patrol vessels, a helicopter, and a private boat with divers have been deployed for search and rescue. Local media footage showed a person wrapped in a blanket being transferred from a Coast Guard boat to an ambulance, while two children were also seen being taken for medical treatment.

The Coast Guard said there is currently no information on how the collision occurred or on the identities of those who died.

Greece is one of the main entry points into the European Union for migrants fleeing war and poverty. Due to weak safety arrangements and rough sea conditions, such routes often witness deadly accidents. In recent years, Greece and several EU countries have tightened migration rules, including faster deportations and increased detention. Migration continues to be a major political issue across Europe, with stricter asylum policies and reduced numbers of new asylum seekers.