At least 15 people were killed after a speedboat carrying migrants collided with a giant coast guard patrol vessel during the late hours of the night in the Aegean Sea, near Chios.
The news was confirmed by Greek authorities, who spoke about how the small inflatable boat was spotted by coast guard officers as it made its way towards the island's eastern shore.
{img}As per officials, the speedboat did not comply with visual and audible signals to stop, instead it reversed course and hit the starboard side of the bigger patrol vessel with enough force to capsize and sink the giant craft.
The rescue team rolled out a major search and recovery operation entailing several coast guard boats, a helicopter, private divers, and air support. The bodies of 14 victims were found at sea, and a woman who was rescued was said to have died in the hospital. This brought the confirmed death toll to 15.
{img}Meanwhile, around 25 survivors, including kids, were treated at a hospital on Chios, with some needing surgery for major injuries.
Two coast guard officers were also injured, one of whom remained under medical care.