40 people arrive desert island of Farmakonisi

A statement by  Aegean Boat Report says a group of 20 people, 16 men, 2 women and 2 children, arrived tonight on the desert island of Farmakonisi, they desperately ask for help, so they are not illegally pushed back, as previous groups arriving on this island.

The group is facing an imminent threat of being pushed back, as soon as the Greek authorities are informed of their presence on the island. We have advised them to call 112 so that Greek authorities are informed of their presence on the island, but they are scared of Greek authorities and what they might do to them if found.

At the same time, there is no other option than to inform authorities, because the only way off this militarized desert island, is by assistance of the Greek coast guard.

Groups that arrived on this island last week, was found drifting in life rafts in the Aegean Sea, we fear that this will be the fate of this group as well, if nothing is done.

The group has provided pictures, videos and location data, that proves their presence on Farmakonisi. This can later be used as proof on violations of international law and human rights, if Greek authorities decide to illegally push them back to Turkey.

We firmly believe that the only thing that can stop an imminent pushback of this group, is to publish about their presence on Farmakonisi.

Please share this widely, in an effort to create as much attention and public awareness as possible, to discourage Greek authorities to push back this group on Farmakonisi.

We know their chances are slim, but we owe them to at least try to give them a fighting chance.