Eight killed and missing as ferry capsizes off Cyprus
At least eight people died and over a dozen are missing after the Filo Jet passenger ferry capsized off Kyrenia, northern Cyprus, following rough sea conditions.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Filo Jet passenger ferry capsizes off the coast of northern Cyprus near Kyrenia.
- At least eight people confirmed dead with more than a dozen still missing.
- Vessel was carrying 259 passengers and 8 crew members when disaster struck.
- Extensive search and rescue operations deployed involving coastguard and helicopters.
At least eight individuals have lost their lives and over a dozen others remain unaccounted for following a maritime disaster off the coast of northern Cyprus, where a passenger vessel capsized after running into severe weather conditions.
Ünal Üstel, the prime minister of the self-proclaimed Turkish administration in the region, stated that the ferry had been transporting 259 passengers along with eight crew members when water began flooding the vessel after its departure from the coastal town of Kyrenia.
The privately owned ferry had originally been scheduled to depart for Turkey on Saturday, but the journey was postponed due to unfavorable weather. When the vessel finally set sail, it encountered dangerous sea conditions.
According to Üstel, who spoke to Turkish media, the boat was struck by two consecutive waves. While the captain was attempting to stabilize the vessel following the impact of the first wave, a second wave hit, causing the ferry to take on water rapidly.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Coastguard vessels and helicopters have been deployed to the area to locate the remaining missing passengers, while medical teams and ambulances await on the beach. Transport minister Erhan Arikli noted that approximately 100 passengers have successfully been brought ashore.
"Priority right now is human life"
Ünal Üstel
Mustafa Koc, a local boat owner who rescued about 65 people, told reporters that he believed the crew should have waited for calmer waters. He also mentioned that the vessel had arrived in Kyrenia on Saturday showing some visible damage to its front section.
The island of Cyprus has remained politically divided since 1974, with the northern third controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, an administration recognized solely by Turkey. This geopolitical status adds unique complexities to regional maritime transport, oversight, and international rescue coordination.
Government officials have promised a comprehensive investigation into the disaster, emphasizing that any negligence will be thoroughly uncovered and prosecuted regardless of responsibility. The operating company expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident.
Source: BBC World
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