On Monday afternoon, a serious accident occurred in the Mediterranean Sea. An Estonian border guard vessel sank near Megisti Island. There were five people on board. Four people were taken to the hospital.
The PPA is investigating why the vessel sank. Two border guards sustained serious injuries. They are in the hospital, but their condition is stable.
PPA Border Guard Chief Veiko Kommusaar said that the people were quickly taken to the hospital. He thanked the Greek authorities and medical personnel. He said that the most important thing right now is the health of the people.
PPA Director General Egert Belitšev said that a bad coincidence was likely the cause. He said that sabotage does not appear to be the reason.
Estonian border guards are assisting Greek coast guard operations. They help guard the European external border. Kommusaar said that this is Estonia’s task. They assist during the winter period when it is cold in Estonia.
Due to the accident, Estonia’s mission ended a few days earlier. The border guards who are recovering will soon be able to return home.
Experts will soon determine whether it is possible to retrieve the vessel from the sea. This vessel cost millions of euros. The PPA has insured it.
Kommusaar said that the accident was fortunate. Everyone on the vessel managed to escape safely.