What happened in the shipwreck off Chios on February 3, 2026?

The shipwreck off the Greek island of Chios on February 3, 2026, resulted in the deaths of 15 Afghan migrants and the rescue of 24 others.

Do survivors' accounts differ from the official Greek coastguard version?

Yes, survivors' testimonies contradict the official account, stating their dinghy did not change course or ram the coastguard vessel and that no prior warning was given.

What is the status of the investigation into the Chios shipwreck?

A Moroccan man has been ordered into pre-trial detention accused of causing the crash, and the coastguard vessel's camera was not activated during the incident.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Migrant Survivors Contradict Greek Coastguard Account

Migrant Survivors Contradict Greek Coastguard Account

9 Feb

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Summary

Survivors dispute official account of a shipwreck that killed 15 Afghan migrants.
Testimonies suggest the coastguard vessel did not warn or chase the migrant dinghy.
The incident occurred off the island of Chios on February 3, 2026.

Migrant Survivors Contradict Greek Coastguard Account

Survivors of a recent shipwreck off the Greek island of Chios have presented a different account than that provided by authorities. The incident on February 3, 2026, resulted in the deaths of 15 Afghan migrants, with 24 others rescued.

Official statements claimed the migrant dinghy ignored warnings and capsized after hitting the coastguard vessel. However, testimonies from three survivors reviewed by Reuters suggest otherwise. They reported no warnings from the coastguard and stated their boat was proceeding directly.

One survivor emphasized that they would have stopped if warned, especially with children aboard. The Greek coastguard has not commented on these new statements and has a history of denying allegations of illegal practices.