ATHENS, Greece — A tragic incident off the coast of Greece has resulted in at least five migrant fatalities, with several others reported missing and over 200 individuals rescued through various operations south of Crete, as stated by the coast guard on Saturday.

The rescue efforts, which began late Friday evening, involved multiple operations in the Mediterranean, with one operation still actively underway, according to the coast guard’s report.

Three of the operations were focused on separate incidents near the island of Gavdos, situated south of Crete. The fourth operation took place in the southern region of Peloponnese on the mainland. During the active operation, a total of 39 individuals were rescued and subsequently transported to Crete. Sadly, authorities have confirmed the recovery of five bodies from the waters, with survivors indicating that there were many more passengers aboard the same vessel.

A significant rescue effort was bolstered with the involvement of nine ships, which included coast guard vessels, an Italian navy frigate, and four merchant ships, in addition to two helicopters aiding the mission. Reports indicate that the coast guard was engaged in comprehensive search and rescue operations throughout the night, supported by navy helicopters, commercial boats, and resources from Frontex, the European border protection agency.

In the earlier operations off the island of Gavdos, 47 and 89 migrants were successfully brought to safety. Both of these operations have since concluded. Meanwhile, an additional group of 28 migrants was rescued off the coast of Peloponnese, where no individuals were reported as missing.

Greek officials have noted that the increasing number of migrants arriving in the region is largely attributed to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, highlighting the dire circumstances that prompt individuals to undertake perilous journeys across the sea in search of safety and refuge.