Recovery operations begin after fatal vessel wreck at Cape Greco

Following a fatal sea accident last Saturday caused by adverse weather conditions, official recovery operations have commenced at Cape Greco. The tragedy involved the destruction of two vessels, identified as Petsas I and Perla Bianca, resulting in the death of Dimis Mavropoulos. While one individual was rescued from the Petsas I, the incident has been classified as a very serious marine casualty due to the total loss of the vessels.

The Marine Accident and Incident Investigation Committee (EDNAS) has officially launched an inquiry into the sinking of the passenger vessel Petsas I. However, Cleanthis Orfanos, head of the relevant service, clarified that the committee will not investigate the circumstances surrounding the vessel carrying Dimis Mavropoulos, as private vessels fall outside the scope of current maritime investigation laws, which follow EU directives and International Maritime Organization codes regarding commercial or flagged shipping.

Following a high-level meeting involving the Ministers of Justice and Agriculture, as well as the Deputy Minister of Shipping, authorities issued a NAVTEX to mariners. Cleanup crews are now operating across the coastline, sea surface, and seabed to remove wreckage and debris. The area has been secured to facilitate full environmental restoration and to complete the investigation process.