Some also said the tragic end, when it came, was precipitated by the actions of the Greek coastguard. The shipping ministry, which oversees the coastguard, told Reuters it couldn’t comment on issues that were the subject of a confidential and ongoing investigation by prosecutors. Nikos Spanos, a retired admiral in the Greek coastguard, told Reuters it was unlikely that a coastguard vessel would have attempted such a dangerous manoeuvre as towing the stricken trawler. The coastguard ship’s log was also submitted to the judicial authorities and details two instances two hours apart when the coastguard vessel approached the Adriana, according to the evidence. Three survivors told authorities they paid anywhere from €50 to €200 euros extra for places on the outer deck, considered safer.

Source: The North Africa Journal June 30, 2023 06:14 UTC