Athens [Greece], September 15: The Greek coast guard has brought around 500 migrants to Crete in the last 48 hours, bringing the number on the island to around 1,000, the ERT broadcaster reported on Sunday.
They had been apprehended after apparently setting off from the Libyan port of Tobruk in fishing boats, according to the report. The island's temporary camp in Agia, near the city of Chania, is facing severe overcrowding and unacceptable conditions, according to local authorities. It was originally only intended for short stays. Prevalent issues include inadequate sanitation, a lack of air conditioning, mattresses placed on the ground and the spread of skin diseases, according to the coast guard officers' union. Tensions among migrants are reportedly high. Officers have warned that the situation is "out of control" and that staff are overwhelmed, with just one officer in place for up to every 100 people. (DPA)
Source: Qatar Tribune