What protocol did the coast guard allegedly breach?

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Greek Ombudsman Found Coast Guard Breached Maritime Protocol in 2023 Migrant Shipwreck

The Greek Ombudsman has concluded that the coast guard failed to adhere to established maritime protocols during the sinking of the migrant vessel Adriana in 2023, leading to a delayed search-and-rescue operation. The inquiry's findings, which corroborate survivor accounts, have been forwarded to a naval court for further investigation into the authority's actions. These conclusions specifically highlight a failure to escalate the situation from mere monitoring to a distress or alert phase, despite observing the overcrowded vessel for approximately 15 hours before it capsized off Pylos.
Failure to Initiate Distress Protocols

The investigation found that the coast guard did not follow protocol by delaying the search-and-rescue (SAR) operation, allegedly waiting for the migrant boat, Adriana, to leave Greek territorial waters. There were no indications that the risk posed to those on board was escalated from a monitoring status to a distress or alert phase at any point before the vessel sank. This implies a breach of standard procedures that would typically mandate immediate intervention or assistance when a vessel is in peril.
Inadequate Response and Resource Deployment

Further breaches identified include the coast guard's lack of response to calls from the European Union's border agency, Frontex, and a failure to request assistance from other available resources. Only a single coast guard vessel, equipped with limited rescue gear, was deployed to the scene. Additionally, merchant vessels that had approached the Adriana were reportedly instructed by the coast guard to move away, potentially hindering opportunities for immediate aid.
Disregard for Survivor Testimonies and Vessel Condition

The inquiry's report dismisses assertions made by the coast guard that the Adriana was seaworthy or that individuals on board had not sought rescue. This suggests that official statements may have been inconsistent with the reality of the situation, and that the coast guard's assessment of the vessel's condition and the passengers' needs did not align with protocols for maritime safety. The communication records from critical hours surrounding the incident were also not maintained, making it difficult to ascertain the full sequence of events leading to the capsizing.

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What protocol did the coast guard allegedly breach?

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