The overcrowded boat sank in the Mediterranean four days ago. Despite the extremely low hopes of success, the search has so far continued in wind force six.
After the serious boat accident with probably several hundred dead in the Mediterranean Sea, there is still no trace of other survivors or fatalities. This was announced by the Greek Coast Guard four days after the sinking of the completely overcrowded fishing cutter in international waters in Piraeus. According to official figures, 104 people survived. 78 bodies were recovered. The numbers are unchanged since Wednesday, the day of the accident.
Despite the extremely slim hopes of success, the search continued at wind force six. A Greek Navy frigate and a Coast Guard helicopter were also involved. Passing ships were told to keep an eye out.
The fishing boat, which was occupied by 500 to 700 migrants, sank on the way from Libya to Europe. According to the coast guard, many people were below deck and were torn down by boat. The site of the accident, around 50 nautical miles southwest of the Peloponnese peninsula, is right above the Calypso low – at more than 5000 meters the deepest point in the Mediterranean. The fishing trawler may never be recovered.
Nine Egyptians were arrested as suspected smugglers. They are to be presented to the public prosecutor on Monday. Athens suspects that those arrested are “low-ranking” smugglers. The masterminds are said to have their headquarters in Egypt, other smugglers are suspected in Italy. The gang is said to have organized 18 such crossings from North Africa to Italy in the past few months, according to the coast guard in Piraeus.
Source: Stern
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