Smugglers change story after deadly boat pursuit

Details of a deadly December 20 pursuit of a migrant smuggling boat by a Hellenic Coast Guard patrol off the island of Rhodes have emerged, with two suspects now retracting their earlier confessions.

The two accused, aged 19 and 23 and identified as Turkish nationals, initially admitted their involvement in the incident during preliminary questioning, stating they participated in the smuggling operation for monetary gain. 

However, they later denied these admissions during their appearance before a judge on Tuesday, claiming they had been coerced into making the confessions. 

The collision between the smuggling boat and the coast guard patrol led to the deaths of eight migrants, some of whom were reportedly struck by the boat's propeller. One child remains missing.

The suspects' retraction and the tragic loss of life have prompted an intense...