In a devastating boat accident off the coast of Greece, at least 209 Pakistani nationals are believed to have been on board the overloaded vessel that capsized and sank. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan shared this data with Reuters, stating that the figure is based on information provided by families who reported their missing relatives. The official death toll stands at 82, with 104 survivors, including 12 Pakistanis. As investigations continue, the government has initiated a DNA sampling effort to help identify the victims. This incident is being regarded as one of the worst sea disasters in the region in recent years.
The Investigation and Verification Process:
The FIA, entrusted by the government to handle investigations into the tragedy, is currently working to verify the reported number of Pakistani victims. Rana Abdul Jabbar, the FIA Islamabad Zone Director, confirmed that an investigation is underway to establish the accuracy of the data. The agency is actively coordinating with affected families and gathering DNA samples to assist in the identification process. A total of 201 families have provided their DNA samples, shedding light on the nationality of the victims.
Tragedy Strikes the Region:
The boat accident considered the worst sea disaster in years, involved hundreds of people from various countries. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the vessel, which measured between 20 to 30 meters in length, was overcrowded with an estimated 400 to 750 individuals on board. The ill-fated boat capsized and sank approximately 50 miles from the southern coastal town of Pylos on June 14. Investigations are ongoing to determine exactly what caused the catastrophe.
Government’s Response and DNA Sampling Effort:
While the official number of Pakistani citizens on board the boat is yet to be confirmed, the government has taken prompt action to assist in the identification process. In an effort to aid Greece in identifying the deceased, a DNA sampling effort has been initiated. The FIA’s data reveals that out of the 209 Pakistanis on board, 181 were from Pakistan, and 28 were from Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The collection of DNA samples from affected families is crucial to establishing the identity of the victims and providing closure to their loved ones.
Arrests Made in Pakistan:
To combat the issue of human smuggling, which played a role in this tragic incident, the FIA has taken swift action. So far, 29 suspected human smugglers have been arrested in Pakistan in connection with the Greece boat tragedy. These arrests reflect the government’s determination to hold accountable those involved in facilitating illegal and dangerous journeys that put innocent lives at risk.
The recent boat tragedy off the coast of Greece has claimed the lives of over 200 Pakistani nationals, according to data shared by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) with Reuters. Families have come forward to report their missing relatives who were on board the overloaded vessel that capsized and sank. As investigations continue, the FIA is working to verify the reported number of victims, while the government has initiated a DNA sampling effort to aid in the identification process.
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This devastating incident serves as a sombre reminder of the risks involved in illegal migration and underscores the need for concerted efforts to prevent such tragedies and ensure the safety of individuals seeking a better life.
The Greece boat tragedy has left the international community in shock, with over 200 Pakistani nationals feared dead. As investigations continue, the FIA is diligently working to verify the reported number of Pakistani victims. The government’s DNA sampling effort aims to aid Greece in identifying those who perished in the accident. The arrests made in Pakistan highlight the commitment to combat human smuggling and hold responsible individuals accountable. This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal migration and emphasizes the need for concerted efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of those seeking better lives.
