39 migrants rescued southeast of Crete

The Hellenic Coast Guard successfully rescued 39 migrants from a distressed vessel in the sea southeast of Crete. The operation was coordinated by the Single Coordination Center for Search and Rescue (JRCC Piraeus).

The migrants were found aboard a small boat approximately 51 nautical miles southeast of the port of Kali Limenes. A patrol vessel from the Hellenic Coast Guard-Hellenic Sea and Air Force carried out the rescue, with support from an manned aerial asset from Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency.

All 39 individuals have been safely brought aboard the coast guard vessel and are being transported to the port of Agia Galini. Upon arrival, they will undergo the standard procedures for registration and identification.

This rescue highlights the ongoing challenges of irregular migration in the Mediterranean. The Greek authorities, with assistance from Frontex, continue to conduct search and rescue operations in the region.