ATHENS — At least 18 migrants drowned after an inflatable boat capsized and was found partially submerged south of Crete, Greek authorities said. A passing Turkish merchant vessel located the stricken craft and rescued two survivors; a search and rescue operation to find others remains under way.
Greek officials have not yet determined where the vessel departed. Frontex has dispatched a ship and an aircraft to assist, and the search also involves a Greek Coast Guard helicopter and three merchant ships.
Greece is a principal entry point into the European Union for people fleeing conflict, poverty and instability across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Short crossings in overcrowded dinghies or small boats between Turkey and nearby Greek islands have long been common and often deadly; intensified patrols and reports of pushbacks in recent years reduced those routes for a time. In recent months, however, officials say arrivals from Libya to Crete have increased, contributing to continuing maritime risks for migrants attempting the Mediterranean crossing.