Recent, consecutive tourist disappearances on Greek islands have raised serious questions about the conditions leading to the incidents.

Authorities believe the recent heatwave in Greece may be a contributing factor, as the tourists may not be accustomed to such extreme temperatures. It appears that some individuals disregard the dangers posed by the heat and embark on hikes.

The first case involved popular British BBC presenter Michael Mosley who disappeared on Symi and was found dead a few days later. This was followed by the disappearance of an American tourist on Amorgos, who remained missing as of Friday, June 14.

In June alone, seven disappearances have been reported by Greek Police, with two ending tragically:

  • Michael Mosley, 67, BBC Presenter: Disappeared on June 5 on Symi and was found dead on June 9.
  • 74-year-old Dutch Man: Missing since June 9 on Samos – still not found.
  • Eric Kalibert, 59, from the USA: Missing since June 11 on Amorgos – still not found.
  • 55-year-old Man from the USA: Missing since June 11 on Corfu from Mathraki – still not found.
  • 80-year-old Belgian Man: Disappeared on June 13 on Crete and was found dead on the same day.
  • Israeli Couple: Disappeared from Vytina.

Local authorities and island-specific officials are investigating all possibilities. In the case of the 59-year-old American on Amorgos, criminal activity cannot be ruled out, as stated by Hellenic Police spokesperson Konstantia Demoglou.

“When there is an electronic device, it is easier and quicker to locate the person. In some cases, it does not help us, such as in the case of Amorgos, where this person has not responded to phone calls from the police since the first moment,” Demoglou stated.

“Unfortunately, the mobile phone companies have given us a very large and inaccessible area to search for him. There is vegetation, there are gorges in that particular area. Criminal activity cannot be ruled out until we find the person and see what condition he is in, as happened with Symi. In the case of Amorgos, there was an immediate mobilisation, with assistance arriving from neighbouring islands. Search efforts are focused on the area’s trails, involving firefighters, volunteers, a police team from Ios, as well as the mayor and municipal councillors of the island.”

The ongoing situation highlights the need for increased awareness and precaution among tourists visiting Greece, especially during periods of extreme weather. Authorities continue to search for the missing individuals and are urging visitors to take necessary safety measures.