Free Pylos 9 campaign: Call for Solidarity at the ‘Pylos 9’ Trial on 21 May 2024

On Tuesday, 21 May 2024, the trial of nine survivors from the Adriana shipwreck, known as the 'Pylos 9', will be held at the Three Member Felony Court of Appeals of Kalamata. The Pylos 9 have been unjustly detained and accused of being part of a criminal organisation, facilitating illegal transport of foreigners into Greece, and causing the shipwreck that occurred on 14 June 2023 in international waters near Pylos and led to hundreds of deaths. They have been held for almost a year in inhumane conditions and face multiple life sentences and significant fines.

To avoid accountability for another state crime resulting in deaths during its sea border operations, Greek authorities are attempting to cover up the events. Investigations by civil society, media, the EU Ombudsperson, and the Frontex Fundamental Rights Office have, however, uncovered inconsistencies in the Greek authorities' account and demonstrate their clear responsibility for the tragedy. The Hellenic Coast Guard and Frontex were aware of the Adriana's distress and failed to fulfill their legal duty to rescue the passengers. Instead, they tried to tow the Adriana ship out of their area of responsibility, leading to its capsizing and the deaths of over 650 people. To conduct this operation, they also denied or redirected all available assistance from the area. The investigating authorities have repeatedly rejected requests by the 'Pylos 9' defense lawyers for a thorough investigation.

We call on everyone to declare their solidarity and to meet on Tuesday, May 21, at 09:00 am, in front of the Kalamata Court House to demand justice for the victims of the Pylos crime and vindication for their friends and relatives.

We demand:

• The immediate acquittal of the 9 survivors from all charges
• Their immediate release and their proper treatment and support as survivors of the shipwreck
• A thorough and independent investigation of the real events behind the ‘Pylos Shipwreck’

Here you can read the whole Call.

For further information also visit the Free Pylos 9 campaign’s website and follow their social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, X).