Four individuals are being held in Chios as suspected human traffickers in connection with the tragedy that claimed the lives of at least 15 migrant deaths off the coast of Chios. According to information obtained by parapolitika.gr, the suspects include three Afghans and one Moroccan national. However, authorities are awaiting the results of the preliminary investigation to clarify each person’s role, while as revealed by the North Aegean Regional Governor to “Parapolitika 90.1,” Konstantinos Moutzouris, one of the deceased is believed to be a human smuggler.
A total of 39 people were aboard the speedboat that collided with the Coast Guard patrol vessel off Chios, while search operations for possible missing persons continue. The collision resulted in 15 foreign nationals dead, including both women and men.
It should be noted that late last night, between Oinousses and Chios, the suspicious vessel was spotted by port authorities, who proceeded to signal for an inspection to be conducted. However, those aboard did not comply with orders and attempted to flee at high speed. During the chase, the boat performed a dangerous maneuver, resulting in a collision with the Coast Guard patrol vessel.
