Tensions grow on Greek island of Samos over overcrowded refugee camp

Tensions grow on the Greek island of Samos as more than 2,500 asylum-seekers share facilities for just 700

Since the summer of 2015, the Greek island of Samos, in the Northeast Aegean, has received thousands of refugees and migrants.

The island has only one refugee camp, called ‘‘hot spot’‘.

People who arrive there from Turkey are meant to be hosted there for a few days for registration.

However, thousands of refugees and migrants stay for several months.

The camp can host up to 700 people, but now 2400 men and women live there, including over 700 children.

Over the last ten days, over 500 refugees and migrants were transferred to Athens and to camps around Greece.

So it was just day ago that the camp hosted more than 3000.

Locals have been protesting and tensions have been growing on the island.

The camp is so full, that at least 300 people live in tents set up in fields nearby.

Land owners complain, but refugees need to stay close so they can get food, water and medicine.