Boy, 12, dies off Greek island of Samos after migrants forced from boat

A 12-year-old boy died off the eastern Greek island of Samos on December 8 after a suspected human trafficker ordered migrants to jump from a speedboat as authorities moved in, local officials said.

The vessel, carrying 37 migrants, was nearing the island’s northern coast in the early hours when the alleged smuggler forced those on board into the water, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media. 

The boy’s nationality has not yet been confirmed.

Greek coastguard units launched a search operation in the area while the suspect, who failed to flee with the boat, is believed to be hiding on shore. Authorities said efforts are underway to locate and arrest him.

The boy’s body was taken to Samos General Hospital. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing.

Earlier on December 8, another group of undocumented migrants reached the nearby Livadakia area, close to Agios Konstantinos.

Samos and other eastern Aegean islands were major entry points during Europe’s migrant crisis a decade ago and continue to see irregular crossings from Türkiye.