- At least seven people have died after a ferry carrying nearly 270 passengers and crew capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday.
- Northern Cyprus Transportation Minister Erhan Arikli said the ship had overturned and rescue crews were already on the scene; about 100 people have been rescued and brought to Kyrenia so far, with search and rescue operations ongoing.
- The rescue count has now risen to 172 as the ferry has completely sunk.
At least seven people have died after a ferry carrying nearly 270 passengers capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday. The catamaran-style ferry was traveling from the port of Kyrenia to the Turkish port of Tasucu when it began taking on water approximately four miles from shore.1
According to Northern Cyprus Prime Minister Unal Ustel, more than 172 people have been rescued so far, with ongoing search and rescue operations. The ferry has reportedly 'completely' sunk, as confirmed by an official quoted by AFP.
The health ministry of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus stated, “All necessary preparations are being made for a swift response from rescue and health services,” indicating the urgency of the situation. Transportation Minister Erhan Arikli noted that rescue crews were already on the scene, with about 100 individuals rescued and brought to Kyrenia.23
Arikli expressed uncertainty regarding the cause of the incident, stating, “We don’t know what caused the vessel to take on water.” Visuals on social media depict people with life-vests floating in the waters surrounding the capsized vessel, highlighting the chaos of the situation. The ferry route between Kyrenia and Tasucu is frequented by various companies, but it remains unclear which company operated the ill-fated vessel.
“Northern Cyprus Transportation Minister Erhan Arikli told TRT that rescue crews were already on the scene, with about 100 people initially brought to Kyrenia. The vessel's complete sinking complicates efforts, as officials continue searching for any remaining passengers.”
