Rescuers have managed to pull nearly 200 people from the sunken ferry. The fate of another 60–70 passengers remains unknown.
Kyrenia Mayor Murat Şenkul said the search for those still missing is ongoing. Survivors described the panic during the sinking: “Our bodies are covered in cuts. People are drowning in the water.” Some passengers climbed onto the roof of the overturned vessel while waiting for rescuers.
The ferry was originally scheduled to depart for Turkey yesterday, but the trip was postponed due to bad weather. The vessel set out to sea today, but the very first wave destabilized the ship. As the captain struggled to keep control of the helm, a second wave hit the Filo Jet, causing the ferry to capsize.
Cyprus offers full SAR support for Kyrenia ship disaster
From the outset the Republic of Cyprus, via its Joint Rescue Coordination Centre, declared itself ready to assist the search-and-rescue operation off Kyrenia for the 267 people aboard a vessel that capsized on Sunday,
prioritising the protection of human life.
The JRCC contacted UNFICYP to convey to the Turkish Cypriot side that Cyprus is prepared, if required, to assume the operation with its available air and naval assets. The President, through the Greek Cypriot negotiator, also sought direct contact with the Turkish Cypriot leader to underline the offer of every possible help. Nicosia’s position remains clear: when lives are in danger it will contribute with every available means, and it possesses both the capability and the readiness to act at once.
Rescue operations are continuing.
