Greek Coastguard Incident: Migrant Death Sparks Investigation

A 39-year-old migrant was found dead after the Greek coastguard fired on a vessel carrying migrants off the island of Symi. An investigation is underway. The boat, with 14 migrants, ignored warnings and performed dangerous maneuvers. Two men were arrested for suspected people smuggling.

A 39-year-old migrant died after the Greek coastguard fired upon a vessel carrying migrants off the island of Symi, authorities reported on Friday. The man likely died from a bullet after shots targeted the boat's engine to immobilize it following ignored warnings.

An investigation has been initiated, and a Greek prosecutor ordered the arrest of the coastguard officer involved. The vessel, carrying eight men, one woman, and five minors, had entered Greek waters illegally from Turkey, ignored visual and audio warnings, and performed dangerous maneuvers, endangering coastguard crew members.

Warning shots were initially fired to prevent immediate risk to the coastguard vessel, followed by targeted shots at the engine to stop the boat. The deceased migrant was believed to be Kuwaiti, and two men were arrested on suspicion of people smuggling. Greece remains a critical entry point to the EU for refugees from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

(With inputs from agencies.)