24.09.2024 14:30
The claim that a Greek Coast Guard boat chased a human smuggler in Bodrum, followed by the sighting of another boat approaching the Datça shores, has reignited discussions about border violations. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, who reacted by calling Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Christos Stylianides, stated that such violations are unacceptable in order to maintain good neighborly relations.
Following the footage of a Greek Coast Guard boat chasing an individual alleged to be involved in human smuggling in the Bodrum district of Muğla, the sighting of a similar boat off the coast of Datça drew attention. In the captured footage, a person disembarking from the Greek boat is seen returning to the boat after taking an inflatable boat, which is claimed to belong to the smuggler, ashore. The video shows that this boat headed towards Misi Island and took the other boat with it.
MINISTER YERLIKAYA EXPRESSED CONCERN
As developments caused an escalation of tension between Turkey and Greece, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya was also prompted to take action. Minister Yerlikaya called Greek Minister of Shipping and Island Policy Christos Stylianides and expressed his 'concern' regarding the violation of Turkish territorial waters by Greek Coast Guard boats during the conversation. Yerlikaya stated that such violations cannot be accepted in order to maintain good neighborly relations.
GREEK MINISTER INITIATED AN INVESTIGATION
Minister Stylianides stated that the incident did not have a political dimension and emphasized the importance of neighborly relations between the two countries. Stylianides highlighted that "the violations that occurred will not be repeated" and expressed that "an investigation has been immediately initiated regarding the matter and Turkish authorities will be informed of the developments." This incident once again brought the sensitivity of Turkish-Greek relations to the forefront, raising questions about how Greece's stance will shape.