Ferry capsizes off northern Cyprus killing at least 8, 22 missing
On Sunday, a ferry with nearly 270 individuals on board capsized off the northern coast of Cyprus, leading to at least eight fatalities and 22 individuals unaccounted for. According to Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Unal Ustel, the ship, which had set sail from Kyrenia, began to take on water just 15 minutes into its journey due to poor weather. A distress signal was sent shortly thereafter, and 237 individuals have been rescued to date. While the exact cause of the incident remains unclear, one survivor reported hearing an explosion at the ferry's bow before it overturned. Authorities have arrested eight individuals, including the captain, as an investigation unfolds in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), recognized solely by Turkey. The search for those missing is ongoing.
Key facts
- At least 8 dead, 22 missing after ferry capsizes off northern Cyprus
- Ferry carried nearly 270 passengers and crew
- Incident occurred on Sunday off the coast of northern Cyprus
- Unal Ustel, Turkish Cypriot prime minister, reported 237 rescued
- Ferry began taking on water 15 minutes after departure due to adverse weather
- Distress call issued shortly after departure
- Police detained eight people including the ferry captain
- Rescued passenger reported a blast at the bow before the ferry rolled over
Entities
Institutions
- TRT
- Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)
Locations
- Cyprus
- Kyrenia
- Turkey