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Yet another indescribable tragedy involving refugees took place in the waters of the Aegean this morning east of Farmakonisi island. The vessel, with an unknown number of passengers on board – probably more than 100 people – capsized. A big rescue operation, involving two Super Puma helicopters, coast guard divers and a navy ship, is taking place in the area.
16 bodies were initially found, but according to the latest reports of the Coast Guard the victims of the tragedy are at least 34.
According to the Athens News Agency, there are at least four infants and 11 toddlers among the victims.
By noon, Coast Guard divers had found eight bodies in the ship's hold. Since it is a closed-type vessel, more victims trapped inside are pretty likely.
There are fears that the number of drowned refugees might grow exponentially.
According to initial Coast Guard information, 68 people have been rescued, and another 29 have managed to reach Farmakonisi shores on their own.
This is the second tragedy within 48 hours near the Greek coast. Early morning on Saturday, an inflatable boat overturned off the island of Samos, 4 children are still being sought.
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