The search and rescue operation in the area northwest of Samos, near the bay of Agios Isidoros, is in full swing for the second day, aiming to locate survivors after the capsizing of a boat in the area.

The search is being conducted by sea and land, involving patrol boats and vehicles of the Coast Guard, as well as nearby ships. So far, 30 foreign nationals (24 men, 5 women, and 1 child) have been rescued, while four bodies (3 women and 1 child) have been recovered.

The operation began yesterday morning when a civilian alerted the Samos Port Authority about people in the sea. Immediately, Coast Guard forces, a helicopter from the Air Force and Frontex, and members of the Hellenic Rescue Team were mobilized. Despite adverse weather conditions, with winds of 5-6 Beaufort, rescuers managed to locate and recover both the victims and the survivors.

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During the operation, an additional 21 people were found on land near the bay of Agios Isidoros. One pregnant woman was transferred to the Karlovasi Health Center.

During the preliminary investigation, a 21-year-old foreign national was arrested, identified as the smuggler of the migrants. The arrested individual faces charges of illegal trafficking and transport of people, leading to death, and his mobile phone was confiscated. The search for any missing persons continues.