Kastellorizo: Burglaries and invasions of Churches by refugees and immigrants

According to the island's deputy mayor, Stratos Amygdalos, there have been reports of burglaries that are now causing residents to worry about what will happen in the winter.

Already in previous days, they knocked down the door of the island's hotel, which is closed during the winter, where they found refuge to sleep. Some of them have chosen to seek refuge in the church of Agios Nikolaos in the castle, and as the deputy mayor says, the "occupation" of abandoned or unfinished homes is now a common occurrence in Castellorizo.

"This situation cannot continue. The refugees and immigrants who come to the island almost daily are 10 to 15 people, there are many young children. These people, with nowhere to sleep, have no structures here, so they seek refuge either in abandoned houses or in unfinished areas to protect themselves from the weather. A few days ago the hotel was opened and they entered, while some found refuge in the church of St. Nicholas in the castle. You understand that this situation cannot continue because winter is not far away and as things show, migrant flows will hardly stop. I do not know what those on the "opposite shores" promise to the people who come to Castellorizo, but unfortunately the living conditions here are very difficult for ourselves also. They are wandering around the village and waiting for their departure for the hospitality structures but this is done every two weeks maybe every 20 days and not everyone leaves. So we are talking about dozens of people looking for shelter for themselves and their children with what this implies for hygiene. We should also not forget that in Castellorizo ​​these people are not able to undergo medical examinations and they are generally exposed both us and them,” says Mr. Amygdalos.

He appeals to every competent authority and central government to ensure that refugees and migrants leave the island with the ship of the line, which reaches the island twice a week.

"We ask that all those responsible for migrants to depart from the island on every itinerary, which comes twice a week," he said. This will solve the problem. Otherwise, uncontrollable situations are foreseen, as it makes sense for these people to stay here looking for accommodation. Where will they stay? In the cold and rain?" The deputy mayor wonders.