A Greek report has indicated that Greek authorities apprehended nearly 800 irregular migrants in a single day off the southern coasts of Crete and Gavdos.
This comes at a time when migration routes originating from Libya are experiencing increased activity, while the number of arrivals via Turkey has markedly decreased.
Greek media reported that the coast guard conducted a series of rescue and interception operations over a 24-hour period south of Crete and Gavdos, resulting in the detection of at least 792 migrants aboard boats heading towards Greek territory.
The Athens News website noted that these developments occur despite a 63 percent decrease in the flow of migrants and refugees from Turkey to the eastern Aegean islands. The website suggests that the reduced activity on the eastern route does not signify a decline in the phenomenon, but rather a shift towards the southern route via Libya.
The report explained that the sea route linking the Libyan coast to the islands of Crete and Gavdos has seen increased traffic in recent months, driven by several factors, including lower travel costs and improved weather conditions. This has gradually made Crete a major arrival point for migrants seeking to enter Europe.
Despite Greek authorities’ claims of enhanced coordination with Libya, training of Libyan coast guard personnel, and cooperation with the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), the report questioned the effectiveness of these measures. It noted that the continued arrival of boats on Greek shores is placing increasing pressure on local authorities and reception and accommodation services.
