ATHENS — Twelve migrants, including an infant, drowned after two separate boats ran into trouble off the Greek islands of Lesbos and Samos, according to reporting by Al Jazeera English.
The fatal crossings mark another deadly chapter along the perilous maritime routes connecting Turkey to the eastern Aegean islands, which remain a primary pathway for people attempting to reach the European Union.
Tragic Crossings Off Lesbos and Samos
The dual tragedies unfolded in Aegean waters that frequently see dangerous journeys attempted on overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels. The confirmed victims included a young infant, pointing to the presence of families among those making the journey.
Greek island authorities have continuously contended with migrant arrivals attempting to navigate the narrow but treacherous sea corridors separating the Turkish coast from frontline European territory. Despite increased patrols and monitoring in the region, small crafts operated by human smugglers regularly capsize in open waters.
Continued Peril on Eastern Aegean Routes
Maritime journeys between Turkey and Greece have claimed hundreds of lives over recent years, driven by armed conflict, persecution, and poverty across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Samos and Lesbos have historically hosted major reception facilities and remain major destinations for vessels leaving Turkish shores.
Further details concerning the total number of passengers aboard both vessels, their countries of origin, and ongoing search or rescue operations were not immediately specified in the initial dispatches.
