Fires Destroy Migrant Camp in Lesbos, Greece
by Mohammad Haroon AlimFires have destroyed the largest migrant camp in Greece, the overloaded Moria camp caught fire on the island of Lesbos.
The question of how the fire sparks broke out is yet unclear, but reports suggest, fires took place in different areas of the camp.
“This devastating tragedy compounds the already existing challenges and difficult conditions at Moria due to overcrowding and COVID-19,” said IOM Director General António Vitorino
Because a large number of refugees have now been displaced, Greece authorities have sent firefighters and reinforcements to the area to control the situation.
The area is cordoned and initial plans were taken to take as many refugees tested positive for COVID-19 to a safe isolated area as possible.
Some reports indicate the fires have started by Wednesday’s dawn, the area was smoldering with a mass off burned facilities, and people were scattered around looking for their belongings.
Nearly 13,000 migrants had taken refuge in the camp, the majority of them are refugees from Afghanistan.
BBC reports, approx 70% of the scampered refugees in the camp are Afghan citizens.
European Commission Vice-President Margaritis said, they are ready to help Greece directly in such difficult situations.
It is reported, that some locals have attacked and prevented migrants who were running away to a nearby village for safety.
UNCHR stated in a statement, that they are aware of tensions between the locals and the refugees, but it is a time both parties must exercise restraints.
Author
Mohammad Haroon Alim holds a BBA degree from Kardan University. He works as a sub-editor for Khaama Press.