An investigation is now underway into the shipwreck in the Mediterranean, in which several hundred migrants lost their lives. Nine alleged smugglers would belong to a large gang. According to Greek media, this is said to have organized up to 18 trips across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy in recent months.
One of the men has already admitted to receiving money to carry out work on the ship during the voyage. The other men are said to have denied all allegations so far. There were also allegations against the Coast Guard. Some survivors even reported trying to tow the boat towards Italy, causing it to sink. This opposed the death of up to 700 people. A patrol boat allegedly offered help, but the migrants on board the cutter refused.
Offer of help ignored?
That was two hours before the accident. “We have approached the ship to check its condition and that of the passengers and provide assistance again,” the newspaper quoted the captain, whose name was not published. Then the officials tied a rope to the bow of the ship. You don’t need help, the destination is Italy, the passengers replied. “Despite repeated calls asking if they needed help, they ignored us and untied the rope at around 11:57 pm,” said the captain.
The patrol boat then accompanied the boat at a distance of 200 meters, the captain said. At 01:40 the cutter stopped again. Then the boat slowly tipped over. There was a riot among the passengers and screaming was also heard. However, the boat capsized within a minute. The Mediterranean Sea is about 5,000 meters deep at this point.
Nine Egyptians arrested
So far, 78 fatalities have been recovered and 104 survivors have been counted. A further search was carried out at the scene of the accident, but to no avail. There is no longer any hope of finding survivors. The disaster off the coast of Greece sparked international outrage. Together with the Italian police and the European police authority Europol, the Greeks now want to track down the masterminds of the smuggling gang. Nine Egyptians between the ages of 20 and 40 have been arrested so far. The gang is said to have organized up to 18 trips across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy in recent months.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
