The Turkish Coast Guard recovered six bodies and rescued 27 migrants during a harrowing operation off the coast of Selcuk on Wednesday. Authorities reported the inflatable dinghy began taking on water in the early hours, triggering a swift response involving ships, helicopters, and life-saving interventions. “This tragedy underscores the deadly risks faced by migrants in the Aegean Sea,” the Interior Ministry stated.
Distress calls at 4:00 a.m. local time mobilized rescue teams to the area, located just miles from Greece’s Samos Island. Critical tools deployed included:
- A coast guard ship
- Three auxiliary boats
- Search-and-rescue helicopters
Video footage revealed crew members tossing life preservers to survivors, including children clinging to the sinking vessel. While nationalities remain unconfirmed, one suspected smuggler was detained for questioning. The incident adds to growing concerns over human smuggling networks exploiting vulnerable migrants seeking European asylum routes.
“Every life lost is a call for global action against these dangerous crossings,” the ministry emphasized.
Migrant routes through the Aegean Sea have surged since 2020, with over 2,000 deaths recorded this decade alone. Poorly constructed dinghies, overcrowding, and ruthless smuggling tactics contribute to repeated tragedies. Selcuk’s proximity to Samos—a key EU entry point—makes it a frequent hotspot for such incidents.
Turkish officials reiterated demands for international cooperation to dismantle trafficking rings and enhance maritime patrols. Meanwhile, survivors face an uncertain future, with relocation processes often prolonged by bureaucratic hurdles. As debates over border policies intensify, this crisis highlights the urgent need for humanitarian solutions.