Chios: Coast Guard Boat Collides with Migrant Vessel – Fatalities and Injuries

A collision occurred off the coast of Chios between a Coast Guard patrol boat and a vessel carrying migrants. Initial reports indicate that there are 4 deceased migrants and several injured individuals.

The incident took place near the Myrsinidi area. The Coast Guard patrol boat located the vessel and signaled it to turn back, but the smugglers moved towards the Coast Guard boat, resulting in the collision. There are also reports of an exchange of gunfire, which have not been confirmed.

A Super Puma helicopter is also participating in the search and rescue operation. Injured individuals have been transported to the port of Chios, and ambulances from EKAB (National Centre for Emergency Care) have been mobilized to transport them to the Skylitseio Hospital of Chios.

According to the Coast Guard, 4 Coast Guard vessels, 1 private boat, and 1 Air Force helicopter are at the scene. 24 foreigners have been rescued, and 2 Coast Guard officers have been injured.