• Sunday, 07 July 2024

Search operation resumes for two missing swimmers, likely Macedonian nationals, in Halkidiki

Search operation resumes for two missing swimmers, likely Macedonian nationals, in Halkidiki
Athens, 10 July 2022 (MIA) – Search and rescue operation is still underway for the two swimmers missing, likely Macedonian nationals, in Halkidiki early on Sunday, MIA’s Athens correspondent reports. Two swimmers remain missing on Saturday evening. The third swimmer, a 25-year-old man was rescued by a surfer shortly before 7 pm and taken to a local health center. A team of Coast Guard and one patrol vessel, one Air Force helicopter, two dedicated vessels, fishing vessels participate in search and rescue operation. Currently, the area is blowing with strength of 5-6 Beaufort. Three swimmers went into the water at noon on Saturday after celebrating a birthday party on the beach. Three young men were being swept away by ocean waves and currents. Greek Coastal Service told MIA’s Athens correspondent on Saturday that the rescued swimmer is from North Macedonia and is a 25-year-old man, who is in good health. For the other two, it is assumed that they are also Macedonian nationals, but there is no official confirmation from the authorities, although the Greek media claim that the missing are from North Macedonia. Sunbathers, who saw the three young men being swept away by the sea waves and currents, informed the Coast Guard. Mobilization of authorities was immediate, while also private boats set to seek for the missing persons.