Another tragedy claims 22 lives in the Mediterranean

Twenty two people on the move have reportedly died after six days of being adrift  in the Mediterranean.

Information released by Aegean Boat Report said: “In the early hours of 27.03.2026, 26 people were rescued south of Crete, near Kali Limenes, after drifting at sea for six days.According to survivor testimonies, the boat had departed from Tobruk, Libya on March 21, carrying 48 people.Only 26 survived. 22 people are reported dead.

“Survivors describe a journey without food or water, lost at sea, exposed to the elements, fighting to stay alive as conditions rapidly deteriorated. They report that those who died during the journey were thrown into the sea.

Aegean Boat Report  said two young men, aged 19 and 22, have been arrested by Greek authorities and accused of smuggling, facilitation, and manslaughter.

“Once again, the focus turns to those at the very bottom of this system — the ones easily blamed, the ones who were on the same boat, in the same conditions, facing the same risk of death. At the same time, the broader system that forces people onto these deadly routes remains untouched.

“People do not spend days at sea without water and food by choice.They do not risk their lives on unseaworthy boats unless all other options have been closed. This tragedy did not start at sea. It started with the absence of safe and legal pathways.With policies designed to deter, contain, and externalise responsibility. With a system that leaves people with no alternative but to take increasingly dangerous routes.”

Over the years, Aegean Boat Report  said “we have seen the same pattern repeat itself:

• Longer and more dangerous crossings

• Boats departing from further away, including eastern Libya

• Increased time at sea with inadequate supplies

• Delayed or absent rescue responses

Each of these factors increases the risk of mass casualty events like this one. Aegean Boat Report continues to monitor the situation and collect information related to this incident. We will update when more verified information becomes available.”