At least 13 migrants have lost their lives in a maritime incident near the island of Crete, Greece, while 18 others have been rescued from intervention teams.

According to report ReutersThe immigrant gomoni were spotted in the early hours of the moon by a Moroccan flag ship about 15 nautical miles south of Crete.

Initially, Greek authorities found 12 troops aboard the burmona and saved 18 people. Another person who was sent to the hospital after surgery later passed away, bringing the number of victims to 13.

Meanwhile, survivors were transported to the shore to get needed medical help. Among them was reported to have a small child.

Other rescue operations took place in the same sea area, where two other burmons carrying dozens of immigrants were involved.

The Greek Coast Guard and the European Frontex border agency were engaged in these operations, with the help of air and sea vehicles.

The circumstances leading up to the death of migrants have not yet become quite clear. According to the authorities, gomonia could have stayed for several days at sea, while difficult weather conditions had prevented its arrival to shore.

This tragedy brings attention to the risk of irregular sea voyages to Europe. Greece remains one of the main entry points for migrants leaving their countries because of conflicts, poverty and uncertainty.

Source Layer: Dukeagini