A statement to all regarding recent events in Idomeni

A meeting that morning (14/03/16) between NGO's and volunteers, regarding the recent drownings of refugees in a river close to the border, determined the dangers of the proposed march, and discussed action to stop the event itself.

The walk headed west along the border into the hills surrounding Idomeni. Volunteers informed walkers of the previous drownings, the dangers of their proposed route, and began to support the most vulnerable walkers. The march arrived at a river crossing that rains had left with a powerful current. The first refugees began to cross the fast flowing river. It became apparent that to stop the crossing was impossible. A section of volunteers aided refugees in forming a spontaneous chain across the river as a safety measure. The main crossing lasted for over a hour with volunteers patrolling the river. Volunteers continued to support the now wet and cold walking group as the march crossed rough terrain.

Aid Delivery Mission works alongside NGO's and other aid groups to deliver support at Idomeni camp, including hot meals, clothing, tents and blankets. The recent growth of numbers has increased our meal delivery to upwards of 9000 hot meals per day, and for the past months we have helped deliver aid to thousands, as long as there are people in need we will continue.

As an independent volunteer group we offer a responsive aid structure to a constantly changing situation.

The events of March 14th have been represented in a number of different ways, it's incredible and shocking to hear rumours that forget the efforts of volunteers, and instead create accusations that sensationalise an already terrible situation.

ADM plus independent volunteers

Statement by ADM plus independent volunteers, published first on 15. Mar 2016 in :: linksunten.indymedia.org.