Greek authorities have transported more than 500 migrants to a port on the mainland in an effort to relieve strain on the island of Crete after a surge in arrivals from Libya.

The suspension will apply only to migrants reaching Crete by sea. Migrants entering illegally will be detained, Mitsotakis said. “The Greek government is sending a firm message:

In recent days, more than 2,000 migrants have landed on Crete, prompting the Greek authorities to halt asylum hearings for those arriving from Africa.