Dozens missing in new refugee vessel tragedy, as Greeks hold general elections
Xinhua, September 20, 2015 Adjust font size:
A new tragedy with the sinking of a vessel carrying dozens of refugees from Turkey to Greece was reported on Sunday off the island of Lesvos in the Aegean Sea, as Greek citizens were casting their ballots in general elections.
At least 26 undocumented migrants and refugees were missing and 22 were rescued in the Aegean Sea, according to the first information by the Greek Coast Guard.
Survivors said that the boat overturned by the waves created from a larger passenger vessel that was sailing nearby.
A girl about five years old lost its life on Saturday and at least 13 undocumented refugees and migrants were still missing after the capsize of a boat amidst strong winds also off Lesvos island.
More than 300,000 undocumented desperate people have reached Greece's shores since the start of 2015, according to official data.
The overwhelming majority continues its journey to more prosperous central and northern European countries, but after the introduction of tighter border controls by several countries lately, Greeks fear that the refugees and migrants will be trapped in a country that does not have the means to help them. Endit