ATHENS, Greece (AP) – Greek authorities say a navy vessel is towing a crippled freighter with hundreds of migrants on board to safety on the southern island of Crete, battling gale-force winds and high waves as it does so.
The navy said the 77-meter (250-foot) Baris cargo ship carrying some 700 people trying to enter Europe was being towed at a speed of about three knots (3.4 miles, 5.5 kilometers per hour) toward Ierapetra in southern Crete after suffering engine failure in international waters. It is expected to arrive late Wednesday.
The coast guard said initial indications suggested passengers included Syrians and Afghans heading for Italy.
Tens of thousands of people seek to enter Europe illegally every year, paying smuggling gangs to ferry them across the Mediterranean. Hundreds die every year in the attempt.