Negligence at Sea: Greece's Coast Guard Under Scrutiny

Greece's Ombudsman revealed the coast guard's failure to adhere to maritime protocols during a major 2023 shipwreck. The delayed response worsened the tragedy, with only 104 survivors out of 750. The report suggests disciplinary actions against officers and awaits judicial review.

A recent investigation by Greece's Ombudsman has accused the Greek coast guard of failing to follow maritime regulations during one of the Mediterranean's deadliest shipwrecks in 2023. This oversight reportedly led to a delayed response in raising an alarm, allowing a crowded migrant boat to sink before action was taken.

The inquiry, spearheaded by Greek Ombudsman Andreas Pottakis, backs up survivors' claims. Recommendations for disciplinary measures against eight coast guard officers have been made, citing clear evidence of negligence that endangered lives onboard the trawler Adriana. The findings have been submitted to a naval court for further legal scrutiny.

Despite the Shipping Ministry's assertion of trust in the coast guard for border protection, the inquiry highlights significant lapses. The lack of escalation to distress phases, failure to respond to EU agency Frontex, and inadequate rescue equipment contributed to the tragic outcome, leaving only 104 survivors from around 750 passengers.

(With inputs from agencies.)