At least eight individuals have lost their lives following a ferry accident that occurred off the northern coast of Cyprus on Sunday. Reports from Turkish media indicate that the ferry, carrying around 270 passengers and crew members, capsized during the incident.
Northern Cyprus Prime Minister Unal Ustel informed the Turkish state-run TRT news channel that 237 individuals have been rescued, with efforts ongoing to locate those still missing. Ustel mentioned that the ferry encountered severe weather conditions and started taking in water only 15 minutes after setting off, prompting a distress call.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended his sympathies and confirmed that his administration is collaborating with Northern Cyprus in the search and rescue operation. Speaking at the Turkish Military Academy’s graduation ceremony in Ankara, Erdogan expressed hope for positive developments in the situation.
The ferry, designed in a catamaran style, was en route from Kyrenia (Girne) port in northern Cyprus to Tasucu port in Mersin province, Turkey. Kyrenia Mayor Murat Senkul revealed that the vessel belonged to the Filo Denizcilik ferry company and sank near Diana Beach on the northern coast of Cyprus.
According to TRT reports, the ferry started taking on water approximately 7.5 kilometers off the coast. Video footage captured individuals wearing life jackets floating in the water near the overturned ferry.
Constantinos Letymbiotis, a spokesperson for Cyprus’s internationally recognized government, expressed readiness to provide assistance in the search and rescue operations through available resources. Letymbiotis conveyed condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the utmost importance of safeguarding human life during such tragic events.