One Dead, 40 Missing as Migrant Boat Sinks Off Crete

One man died, and 40 people are missing after a migrant boat sank off Crete early Saturday, according to the Greek coastguard. Thirty-nine survivors were rescued.

A large rescue operation is underway south of Gavdos Island after a migrant boat capsized shortly after midnight, the Greek coastguard reported. An Italian frigate and helicopters are assisting, with more ships en route to the site.

One survivor was airlifted to a hospital in Chania, Crete, and is in intensive care. Local media report 39 survivors, one confirmed death, and 40 people still missing.

Greece has seen a 25 percent rise in migrant arrivals this year, driven by war and poverty, with a 30% increase in arrivals to Rhodes and the southeast Aegean.

Recent weeks have seen similar tragedies, including an incident in late November near Samos Island, where eight migrants, including six children, died on a smuggling route frequently used in the region.

Here’s the video of the week: