Greece boat disaster: Nine trafficking suspects plead not guilty in first court appearance
Nine men, aged between 20 and 40, who were accused of causing a disaster when a vessel sank off the Greek coast and killed at least 78 migrants, have pleaded not guilty to the charges of people-smuggling.
One of the suspects’ lawyers is arguing his client was a passenger and not involved in smuggling activities.
The UN reports that approximately 500 people remain missing, raising concerns about the true number of deaths.
Recent evidence obtained by the BBC also raises doubts about the Greek coastguard’s version of events following the vessel sinking. Analysis of ship movements in the area indicates that the overcrowded fishing vessel had been stationary for at least seven hours before it capsized. But the coastguard maintains that during this time, the boat was heading towards Italy and did not require assistance.
Greek officials say those on board did not ask for help and claimed they were not in danger until moments before the boat sank.
The suspects all appeared at the Kalamata Court and faced charges of negligent manslaughter, endangering lives, causing a shipwreck, and human trafficking. A decision regarding their custody until the trial is set to be made on Tuesday.
In a separate development, Pakistani authorities have apprehended 14 individuals suspected of involvement in the trafficking of migrants who drowned in the incident. The government in Islamabad has initiated a high-level inquiry into the human trafficking network allegedly responsible.