According to the statement, Greek Coast Guard forces pushed the boats carrying irregular migrants, including women and children, back to Turkey. They were rescued off coast of western Turkey in the Aegean Sea.

Between July 17 and July 23, a total of 207 migrants were rescued in 9 incidents, the statement said.

Turkey has traditionally been a major transit port for irregular immigrants to enter the European countries.

According to the official reports, 454,662 irregular migrants held across the country in 2019. (ILKHA)