London, March 16: At least three refugees from Afghanistan have drowned while trying to reach Macedonia from Greece via a river, as they struggled with the alternative route following the closure of the main border.
The bodies of the victims were pulled out the Suva Reka river, which was swollen by rain, early on Monday.
Macedonia state news said they had drowned “in the icy waters” having “crossed into our territory, finding a spot where the [razor wire border] fence ends”.
Some 23 others were later rescued from the river, and placed in a local refugee camp.
They were among more than 1,000 people who attempted to march to Macedonia using alternative routes in recent days, after the Balkan nation effectively blocked large numbers from continuing their journey on February 21 by imposing strict restrictions.
Images from the border on Monday showed hundreds of refugees form a human chain as they helped others to cross the narrow river stream.
Macedonian officials said on Tuesday that about 600 refugees and migrants were sent back to Greece on trucks.
