In a recent BBC report, it has been alleged that Greece's coastguard was responsible for causing dozens of migrant deaths over a span of three years, according to witness testimonies. The report states that nine migrants were deliberately thrown into the water. As a result, Greece's main opposition party, Syriza, is demanding a thorough investigation into these claims.

Giorgos Psychogios, Syriza's immigration policy chief, emphasized the party's commitment to protecting human life and expressed their concern over the loss of human lives. He revealed that their party had been calling for accountability over coastguard incidents for years, as various international institutions and organizations have reported similar incidents. However, instead of addressing these concerns, the government accused Syriza of being "anti-Greek," "Erdogan agents," and "provocateurs."

The government spokesperson responded to the allegations by stating that the claims made by the BBC have not been proven, but assured that every complaint would be thoroughly investigated. Pavlos Marinakis, who represents the coastguard, defended their actions by reminding reporters that the coastguard saves numerous lives on a daily basis and that it is unfair to target them.

The BBC report also included footage previously published by the New York Times, where 12 individuals were seen being loaded onto a Greek coastguard boat and subsequently abandoned on a dinghy. A former senior Greek coastguard officer, who viewed the footage, stated that these actions were clearly illegal and amounted to an international crime. This incident sheds light on the long-standing accusations against the Greek government of engaging in forced returns, which is illegal under international law.

The BBC's analysis of 15 incidents between May 2020 and May 2023 revealed that 43 deaths allegedly occurred as a result of the Greek coastguard's actions. These incidents were initially reported by local media, NGOs, and the Turkish coastguard. The shocking findings prompted Human Rights Watch to describe the allegations as a "particularly horrifying addition to mounting and credible allegations against Greek authorities." They have called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure justice for the victims and to address the cycle of violence and impunity at Greece's borders.

Pasok, a social democratic opposition party, expressed their concern over the BBC report, stating that it raises reasonable questions about possible illegal actions by the coastguard. They await the authorities' response, reiterating the importance of respecting human life and values.

The Greek Council for Refugees also joined the calls for an investigation, stating that pushbacks are a de facto policy for Greece and emphasizing the need for government and EU intervention. Furthermore, with Greece facing its earliest heatwave on record, a number of foreigners have gone missing, adding to the urgency of addressing these allegations.

As the controversy unfolds, it is clear that further investigation is required to determine the truth behind the allegations made against the Greek coastguard. The demand for accountability and justice remains at the forefront of this issue as Greece faces scrutiny for its treatment of migrants and refugees at its borders.