Four Pakistanis dead in Greece boat capsizing: FO

Following the incident, PM Shehbaz directed the formation of a committee to investigate the tragedy

Four Pakistani nationals have been confirmed dead following a boat capsizing incident off the southern coast of Crete Island, Greece, on Saturday. Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch announced the tragic news on Monday, saying the victims were identified by Greek authorities.

"We announce with deep sorrow that, as per the latest information shared by the Greek authorities, four Pakistani nationals have been identified among the dead in Saturday's incidents of capsized boats in the south of Crete Island of Greece," Baloch said in a statement.

She further stated that Pakistan's mission in Athens is in constant contact with Greek authorities to assist survivors and facilitate the repatriation of the deceased.

Earlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had confirmed the rescue of 47 Pakistani nationals from the site of the capsized boat near Greece. The ministry also clarified that additional casualties could be possible as the search operation continues.

According to Greece's coastguard, at least five migrants drowned after their wooden boat capsized off the island of Gavdos. Authorities have not confirmed the total number of missing persons as the rescue operation remains ongoing.

In response to the casualties, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) activated its Crisis Management Unit (CMU) to assist Pakistanis in Greece. Families of missing individuals are urged to contact the CMU at 051-9207887 or via email at [e-mail]. The Embassy of Pakistan in Greece can be reached at [phone] for further assistance.

The tragic incident has reignited concerns about illegal migration and human smuggling, with the Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi calling for nationwide operations against smuggling networks.

Following the incident, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the formation of a committee to investigate the tragedy, which is tasked with submitting its findings within five days. The committee is led by the additional secretary of the Ministry of Interior.