A tragic migrant boat sinking off the coast of Ayvacık in the Aegean Sea claimed the lives of five people, while 25 others were rescued by Turkish authorities.

The incident occurred as the boat, carrying irregular migrants attempting to reach Greece, capsized near the shores of Türkiye’s Çanakkale province.

According to Türkiye’s North Aegean Coast Guard Command, emergency teams received a distress report about an inflatable boat in distress near Ayvacık. Responding swiftly, rescue teams managed to save 25 people, bringing them safely to shore. However, initial reports confirmed that five bodies were recovered from the sea.

Medical teams were dispatched to the scene, providing emergency treatment to the rescued migrants. Those in need of further medical care were transported to hospitals in Balıkesir and Çanakkale by ambulance.

Meanwhile, Turkish Coast Guard Command teams have launched a search operation to locate any additional survivors and investigate the circumstances surrounding the sinking.

The Aegean Sea remains a perilous route for migrants attempting to reach Europe, with frequent incidents of boat sinkings and drownings. The latest tragedy highlights the continued dangers faced by refugees and migrants seeking a better life.

Authorities have yet to release details on the nationalities of those involved or the potential cause of the incident. Rescue efforts are ongoing. (ILKHA)