The Greek coastguard has called off the search for the 12 sailors missing on the cargo ship, Raptor, which sank in the Aegean Sea last weekend. The vessel, which was sailing from Alexandria, Egypt to Istanbul, had a crew of 11 Egyptians, including the captain, as well as two Syrians and an Indian national. One crew member, a 27-year-old Egyptian oiler, managed to survive by clinging onto a barrel and was rescued by a navy helicopter.

Sadly, only one body has been recovered so far. The search operation, which involved a Greek navy frigate, nearby cargo ships, helicopters, and a coastguard patrol vessel, has been called off as the cargo ship was found to be located at a depth of 300 meters (984 feet). The surviving crew member is expected to return to Egypt on Friday. Media reports have raised questions about the cause of the ship's sinking. It has been speculated that the vessel may have been involved in smuggling due to the captain's delay in calling for help.

The survivor informed authorities that the ship had been taking on water during the night, but the captain failed to alert the coastguard until the morning. The coastguard has stated that the ship should have notified rescue authorities earlier, as there was an engine failure that was not reported. The ship first reported a mechanical failure at 7:00 am local time, and at 8:20 am, the captain alerted the coastguard that the ship was listing, before disappearing from radar. The sinking of the Raptor is a tragic incident that has claimed the lives of most of the crew members.

As investigations continue, authorities will be looking into the circumstances surrounding the delay in alerting rescue authorities and the possibility of smuggling. The surviving crew member's account of the ship taking on water during the night raises further questions about the ship's condition and maintenance. This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by sailors and the importance of prompt and proper communication in maritime emergencies.