A shipwreck occurred off Samos this morning (September 23), resulting in at least 3 dead refugees and migrants, with 25 others reported missing, according to survivors. So far, 5 people have been rescued.
Initial reports indicate that the migrants were on a plastic dinghy that sank northwest of Samos, near Agios Isidoros, just 150 meters from the shore. The dinghy was navigating in adverse weather conditions, with strong winds of 5-6 Beaufort in the area.
The Coast Guard was alerted to the refugee shipwreck by someone who heard cries for help.
Efforts to locate the 25 missing individuals involve both land and air resources, including a Coast Guard patrol vessel, a rescue boat from the Hellenic Rescue Team of Samos, and a helicopter.
Two months ago, the Coast Guard rescued 23 migrants off Samos and arrested the 21-year-old operator of the speedboat they were on, identifying him as their smuggler.
On Saturday, the Coast Guard reported intercepting a boat heading toward Farmakonisi with 29 refugees and migrants on board. After being located, they were transported to the port of Leros.
