Search launched for German tourist, 21, last seen near Samaria Gorge

A search-and-rescue oepration was underway in the mountains of Chania, Crete on Sunday to locate a 21-year-old German tourist who has been missing since Thursday.

He was last reported near the location Xyloskalo, Omalos near the entrance of Samaria Gorge, which is closed at this time of year.

The authorities were alerted to his disappearance on Saturday evening by the owner of a car hire company, from which the young tourist had hired a car. The search began at first light on Sunday, with the participation of three fire brigade vehicles and six fire fighters, EMAK forces and two drones. Assistance is also being given by the police and the coast guard has been alerted.