Greece's Ministry of Migration and Asylum is moving forward with plans to build a migrant detention center at a former f...

Greece's Ministry of Migration and Asylum is moving forward with plans to build a migrant detention center at a former factory in Iraklio, Crete, even after an urban planning report flagged zoning violations at the site. Ministry sources confirmed all necessary procedures will be completed to make the facility operational regardless of the findings. The report was originally commissioned after residents of nearby villages raised objections and pushed back against the plan. Those residents say the zoning findings vindicate them, and they are now threatening legal action and precautionary measures to stop construction if the ministry refuses to reconsider. Crete has rapidly become one of Greece's primary entry points for migrants crossing from north Africa. In June alone, 3,233 people arrived on the island, including 558 in just one week between June 22 and 28. So far in 2026, more than 7,500 arrivals have been recorded and over 150 rescue operations carried out by the Coast Guard. In all of 2025, 20,851 migrants reached Crete and the nearby island of Gavdos, with the Coast Guard handling more than 350 incidents that year. Authorities say the numbers justify a second organized reception facility, as the existing shelter in Agia, Hania has been operating for nearly three years and is now under pressure from rising arrivals along both the Iraklio and Lasithi coastlines. Officials cited adequate living conditions, legal compliance, and reducing pressure on Crete's tourism sector as reasons for pushing the project forward. July historically represents the peak month for arrivals, meaning the pressure on current infrastructure is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. #Crete #Immigration #Greece