8-year-old German child rescued after being swept out to sea in Crete

A swift and coordinated rescue operation was launched in Crete after an 8-year-old German child was swept out to sea on an inflatable ring. The incident occurred in the waters off Ligres beach in the municipality of Agios Vasilios. The Hellenic Coast Guard received notification from the Single Coordination Center for Search and Rescue (EKSED) of the Port Police – Hellenic Coast Guard, prompting an immediate response. Local emergency plans were activated, and a search and rescue mission commenced. Assets deployed included a Coast Guard vessel, a Frontex boat, and a patrol vehicle from the land. Crucially, the passenger-tourism vessel 'FOINIKAS' (registration number N.CH. 642) played a vital role in the operation. The crew of the 'FOINIKAS' spotted the young child and successfully recovered them from the water. The child was then safely transported back to Ligres beach and reunited with their parents. According to the parents, the 8-year-old was in good health and did not require any medical attention. The successful outcome was attributed to the prompt mobilization of the relevant authorities and the effective cooperation between different agencies and civilian vessels.

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Assistance was requested for the rescue of an 8-year-old child of German nationality, who had been swept out to sea on a circular inflatable ring in the marine area of Ligres beach, in the municipality of Agios Vasilios.