Tragedy at Sea: Boat Collision Claims Migrant Lives

A tragic maritime incident occurred near Turkiye's Mediterranean coast when a migrant boat collided with a coast guard vessel. Fourteen migrants drowned, and more were rescued or detained. Officials have launched investigations as search and rescue operations continue.

A maritime tragedy unfolded near the Mediterranean coast of Turkiye when a migrant boat, in pursuit by a coast guard vessel, collided, leading to the drowning of 14 migrants. The tragic event, reported by officials, highlights the perilous journeys migrants often undertake in search of a better life.

According to Gov. Hulusi Sahin, the incident occurred off the coast of Demre in Antalya province when the boat, carrying Afghan migrants, attempted high-speed maneuvers to elude capture. Despite calls to halt, the vessel continued, resulting in the fatal collision.

Rescue efforts were immediately launched, with seven individuals saved from the waters and others reaching shore detained by gendarmerie units. Intensive search and rescue missions are ongoing, with both judicial and administrative investigations underway to uncover the incident's full circumstances, officials said.

(With inputs from agencies.)