A video filmed on Gavdos island has gone viral, showing locals pushing a migrant boat into deeper waters near Sarakiniko beach, sparking online debate over their actions.
Some viewers claimed the beachgoers were refusing aid, but the footage shows no aggression. The migrants appear unharmed and do not react negatively.
@alexanagn4 #gavdos2025 ♬ πρωτότυπος ήχος – alexanagn
Greek coast guard sources clarified the move was intended to stop the boat from becoming stuck in shallow waters, adding that the vessel was bound for the nearby port and accompanied by a Frontex patrol ship monitoring the area.
The video comes as Crete faces a sharp rise in arrivals from North Africa. Since September 12, more than 880 people have landed on the island, swelling migrant numbers to about 1,200 and straining local facilities. The Greek government has moved to address the situation.
