At least 8 migrants drown in tragic incident near Greek Island of Samos

At least eight migrants, including women and children, drowned early Saturday when their overcrowded vessel capsized off the coast of the Greek island of Samos.

Authorities fear the death toll may rise, as search-and-rescue operations continue to locate survivors and recover bodies.

The Greek Coast Guard reported that the wooden boat, believed to have been carrying around 40 people, overturned in rough waters near Cape Prasso. Rescue teams, supported by helicopters and nearby fishing vessels, managed to save 28 individuals, but many remain unaccounted for.

“Every life lost in these waters is a tragic reminder of the perilous journeys people undertake in search of safety and opportunity,” said a spokesperson for the Hellenic Coast Guard.

Samos, situated close to Turkey, is a frequent landing point for migrants attempting to cross the Aegean Sea as part of their journey to Europe. The route, however, is fraught with danger, with overcrowded and poorly maintained boats often succumbing to harsh weather conditions.

Survivors have been transferred to local medical facilities for treatment, while authorities have launched an investigation to identify the smugglers responsible for organizing the crossing.

The tragedy comes amid heightened tensions in the region over migration policies. Greece, a key entry point to the European Union, has been criticized by humanitarian groups for its strict border controls and alleged pushback practices. The Greek government, however, maintains that it operates within international law while combating human trafficking networks.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called for increased international cooperation to address the root causes of migration and ensure safer routes for those fleeing conflict, persecution, and poverty.

This latest incident adds to a growing death toll in the Mediterranean, which has become one of the world’s deadliest migration corridors. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 2,500 people have lost their lives attempting the journey across the Mediterranean so far this year.

Human rights advocates are urging European leaders to prioritize humane migration policies as the crisis continues to escalate.