On May 23, 2025, a significant legal decision was made by the prosecutor of the maritime court in Piraeus, Greece, to pursue criminal charges against 17 Greek coast guard officers for their alleged involvement in the tragic Mediterranean shipwreck of June 2023, which resulted in over 650 fatalities.

The incident involved the fishing boat 'Ariadne,' which was severely overcrowded with approximately 750 people when it sank near the Greek port of Pylos, leading to only 104 survivors being rescued.

Prior to the sinking, the Coast Guard vessel LS 920 reportedly approached the 'Ariadne' but failed to provide assistance, raising serious questions about their actions during the incident.

This decision implicates the Greek state, acknowledging a degree of responsibility for the incident and highlighting ongoing issues surrounding migrant safety in the Mediterranean.

Survivors have indicated that masked Coast Guard personnel were involved in securing the boat, suggesting potential culpability in its capsizing as they attempted to pull it into Italian waters.

A nearly two-year preliminary investigation concluded that the coast guard officers failed to respond appropriately to the distress call associated with the 'Ariadne'.

Legal experts view the initiation of criminal proceedings against the Coast Guard as a unique and significant step in seeking justice for the victims of this maritime tragedy.

The charges against the Coast Guard officers include causing a shipwreck, endangering human life, and failing to provide assistance, particularly against the captain of the LS 920 and its crew.

Eleni Spathana, a human rights lawyer, emphasizes the importance of prosecuting high-ranking officials in this case, underscoring the obligation to protect human life amid EU deterrent policies.

The case has been forwarded for further investigation to a magistrate to determine the admissibility of the charges against the Coast Guard personnel.

Among those facing accusations are the former head of the Coast Guard and the captain of the boat involved, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations.

The shipwreck of the 'Ariadne' is regarded as one of the deadliest maritime disasters in recent Mediterranean history, with estimates suggesting hundreds more may have perished.