According to a report by Reuters, which cites Greece's coast guard, three individuals have lost their lives and five others have been rescued after a boat carrying migrants encountered difficulties off the coast of the island of Samos. The coast guard is currently involved in the response efforts.

Greece's coast guard reported that three individuals have died and five others were rescued after a migrant boat encountered difficulties off the coast of the eastern Aegean island of Samos.

On Monday, the coast guard stated that the total number of people on board the boat, which is believed to have been a dinghy, remains unclear, and the specific circumstances of the incident are still under investigation.

An extensive search and rescue operation is currently in progress in the area northwest of Samos. This operation includes three coast guard patrol boats and a private vessel, as well as an air force helicopter and supporting crews, to assist in locating any survivors who may have reached the shore.

As of now, there is no immediate information regarding the identities or nationalities of those who were rescued, nor details about the three bodies that were recovered.

Greece is situated along one of the most frequented routes into the European Union for individuals escaping conflict and poverty in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Despite increased enforcement measures by Greek authorities at the border with Turkey, thousands continue to attempt the journey, often crossing from the Turkish coast to nearby Greek islands in fragile inflatable dinghies.