New evidence raises questions over deaths of 15 Afghan asylum seekers in Aegean Sea collision

Hasht-e Subh has obtained new photos and evidence from a fatal incident on February 3 in the Aegean Sea near Chios island, Greece, involving a plastic boat carrying Afghan asylum seekers and the Greek Coast Guard vessel LS-1077.

The images show structural damage to the migrant boat, including detachment of the outboard motor and steering mechanism damage, as well as impact marks on the bow of the Coast Guard vessel. Autopsy findings indicate that most of the 15 victims died from severe physical trauma, including skull and brain injuries, chest impacts, and in one case a crushed head, rather than drowning.

Initial official communications suggested the individuals fell into the sea and drowned. However, the forensic evidence points to direct physical collisions. A retired Coast Guard admiral and maritime accident expert publicly questioned the official account, stating that an overloaded plastic boat with about 40 passengers lacks the maneuverability and speed to collide with a much larger patrol vessel, likening it to "a bicycle hitting a truck."

Lawyers representing survivors have formally demanded the salvage of the sunken boat, reconstruction of the scene, release of Coast Guard communications and recordings, and an independent investigation by experts.

The incident involved a boat traveling from Turkey toward Greece, resulting in 15 Afghan deaths, including women, children and two pregnant women, and 25 injuries. Public debate in Greece has intensified, with Chios hospital doctors warning against rising hostility and dehumanization, emphasizing the equal value of human life regardless of nationality.

Hasht-e Subh states that physical evidence, forensic findings and testimonies necessitate a transparent, thorough and independent probe.