The treacherous waters of the Aegean Sea have claimed more lives in a horrific maritime disaster. At least 15 migrants have perished after their speedboat collided with a Hellenic Coast Guard vessel off the island of Chios, turning a high-stakes pursuit into a graveyard.

Greek authorities report that the collision occurred late Tuesday night during a chase. The speedboat, allegedly making dangerous maneuvers to evade capture, crashed into the patrol boat, throwing its occupants into the dark, churning sea. The recovery mission has been grim: 11 men and three women were pulled lifeless from the water, while another woman succumbed to her injuries in hospital.

A Deadly Crossing

The incident highlights the lethal risks taken by migrants seeking entry into the European Union. Chios, located just a few miles from the Turkish coast, remains a primary flashpoint for these desperate crossings.

• The Rescue Effort: Despite the tragedy, 24 people were rescued from the waves, including several children who are now receiving medical care on the island.
• Investigation Underway: The Greek coastguard has not yet released a detailed account of the collision's mechanics, but questions are already being asked about the protocols of engagement during such high-speed pursuits.
• The Human Toll: Among the survivors are traumatized families who watched their loved ones die in the impact. Two coastguard officers were also injured, underscoring the violence of the crash.

A Recurring Nightmare

This catastrophe is the latest in a string of deadly incidents in the Mediterranean. As governments tighten borders and patrols increase, smugglers are resorting to faster, more dangerous vessels, and taking greater risks to outrun authorities. For 15 souls, that gamble ended in the cold waters off Chios, adding to the grim statistic of a crisis that shows no sign of abating.