Five children were among the seven people killed when a small boat capsized near the Greek island of Chios.

The people on the boat were Turkish citizens, who were likely trying to reach Greece. One baby died, four children, and two women. A total of 19 people were on the boat which was sailing in relatively good weather.

The area is frequently used by refugees and illegal migrants from the Middle East, central Asia and Africa to get on the Balkan migrant route, but instances of it being used by Turkish citizens are relatively rare. Islands such as Chios and Lesvos are the main destinations for the people crossing over from Turkey, who then hope to be transferred to the mainland so they can continue their trek to the core EU countries.