Greek Parliament Protest Over Egyptian Men Trial

Dozens of people gathered outside the Greek parliament to protest before the trial of nine Egyptian men accused of smuggling in connection with a devastating migrant shipwreck. The incident took place on June 14, 2023, when the Adriana fishing trawler, carrying hundreds of migrants from Pakistan, Syria, and Egypt, sank off the coast of Pylos while traveling from Libya to Italy. Among the estimated 500 to 700 passengers, only 104 survived, and the remains of 82 individuals have been found.

The protest was in support of the nine Egyptian survivors facing charges related to the shipwreck, such as causing the incident, involvement in a criminal organization, and migrant smuggling. The circumstances of the Adriana's sinking are still disputed between Greek authorities and advocacy groups for survivors and migrants. The upcoming trial offers a chance to officially hear the testimonies of those who were there during the tragic event.

Survivors claim that the Greek coast guard intentionally capsized the boat, while authorities argue that the vessel overturned when a coast guard vessel was nearby. The coast guard service denies any wrongdoing. The events leading to the Adriana's capsizing, from the moment the coast guard was alerted to the vessel's presence until the tragedy unfolded, remain unclear.

The trial of the nine Egyptian men accused in connection with the migrant shipwreck has sparked debates and protests, shedding light on the complexities of the incident. As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial to seek justice and accountability while also addressing the broader issues of migrant safety and rescue operations at sea.