A major maritime disaster unfolded off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday after a passenger ferry carrying nearly 270 people capsized while travelling from Kyrenia to Turkey.
At least eight people were confirmed dead, while rescue teams continued searching for passengers who remained unaccounted for. Hundreds of people were rescued following the incident, which triggered a large-scale emergency response involving coast guard vessels, helicopters and other rescue teams.
The ferry, identified as the Filo Jet, had departed from Kyrenia, also known as Girne, and was heading towards the Turkish port of Taşucu when the accident occurred.
Ferry Began Taking on Water Shortly After Departure
Officials said the ferry began experiencing problems shortly after leaving the northern Cyprus coast. Reports indicated that the vessel started taking on water before capsizing several kilometres offshore.
The ferry was carrying approximately 267 people, including passengers and crew members.
Survivors were rescued from the sea and transported back to shore, while some were taken to hospitals for medical treatment. Video footage from the scene showed people wearing life jackets as rescue vessels worked to bring survivors to safety.
The exact cause of the disaster has not yet been officially confirmed.
Major Search and Rescue Operation Continues
Authorities launched a major search and rescue operation involving vessels and helicopters from northern Cyprus and Turkey.
Hundreds of people were successfully brought to safety, but emergency teams continued searching for those still missing. The rescue operation has been complicated by the location and depth of the waters where the ferry sank.
Officials said advanced equipment could be used as part of efforts to determine whether anyone remained trapped inside the sunken vessel.
The tragedy has shocked communities across northern Cyprus and Turkey, with government officials expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
Captain and Crew Face Investigation
Authorities have opened an investigation into the ferry disaster to determine what caused the vessel to take on water and eventually capsize.
The captain and several crew members have reportedly been detained as part of the investigation. Officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the voyage, including the condition of the vessel and the events leading up to the accident.
Leaders in northern Cyprus described the incident as one of the most serious maritime disasters in the region’s history.
As search operations continue, authorities have said their immediate priority remains locating the missing passengers and providing support to survivors and the families affected by the tragedy.
The situation remains developing, and casualty and missing-person figures may change as rescue teams continue their work.
