Leaked Audio Exposes Controversies in Greek Coastguard's Response to Migrant Shipwreck

Leaked audio recordings have raised serious doubts about the Greek Coast Guard's version of events surrounding a devastating migrant shipwreck that occurred on June 14, 2023. Survivors allege that coastguards intentionally caused the boat to capsize, while the coastguard claims they did not act because the migrants did not want assistance. These revelations have intensified scrutiny and calls for an impartial investigation.

Leaked audio recordings from the Greek Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) have surfaced, questioning the official Greek narrative concerning the tragic sinking of the Adriana, a migrant vessel that went down in the Mediterranean Sea on June 14, 2023. The boat, carrying an estimated 650 to 750 people, sank in international waters after departing from Libya. Survivors reported that the overcrowded craft capsized during a botched towing attempt by the coastguard, an accusation the Greek authorities vehemently deny.

In the leaked recordings, an unnamed JRCC officer instructs the captain of the Adriana to communicate to an approaching vessel that the migrants do not wish to reach Greece. The coastguard maintains that they never attempted a rescue as they believed the migrants were not in danger, asserting that those onboard voluntarily aimed for Italy instead.

The disaster, one of the most severe maritime tragedies in recent times, has led to criticism of the Greek authorities, with survivors alleging that the coastguard forced them to remain silent about their dire situation. The recordings detail a conversation in which an officer requests the captain of the “Lucky Sailor” ship to log that the migrants specifically expressed their desire to proceed to Italy.

Despite the gravity of the situation, the coastguard has refrained from commenting on the leaked audios. They have stated their cooperation with a Naval Court, which is currently investigating the disaster, and highlight their previous humanitarian efforts in rescues at sea.

Previous investigations, including one by the BBC, have critically assessed the coastguard's response leading to the shipwreck. Analysis suggests that the Adriana was adrift for hours before capsizing, contradicting the authorities' claims that the vessel was on course for Italy and not in need of assistance.

In addition to the new evidence from the audio, allegations have arisen regarding a cover-up aimed at deflecting responsibility onto the nine Egyptian men facing charges related to the shipwreck. A court case against them was dismissed due to jurisdictional issues, amid claims that evidence from survivors contradicted the prosecution's narrative.

Human rights advocates and organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch are expressing serious concern over the legitimacy of the Greek investigation, calling for an independent inquiry. The Greek Ombudsman is also investigating the claims, alongside the ongoing examination by the Greek Naval Court.

As the situation develops, the controversy surrounding the sinking of the Adriana highlights the complex humanitarian crises faced by migrants and raises critical questions about accountability and the conduct of authorities in managing rescue operations at sea.