Ferry capsizes off northern Cyprus coast
A passenger ferry capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus, resulting in the deaths of at least eight people and leaving 18 others missing. The Filo Jet ferry was carrying approximately 267 passengers and crew members. 237 individuals have been rescued following a search and rescue operation. The ferry was en route from Kyrenia, northern Cyprus, to Taşucu in Turkey when it began taking on water.Survivors described adverse weather and the vessel being hit by two large waves. A blast may have occurred at the bow of the ferry before it overturned and sank. Authorities have not yet established the cause of the disaster, but an investigation is underway.The ferry's captain and seven other crew members have been arrested. Local media reports allege the captain was among the first to abandon the distressed vessel.Search and rescue efforts continue for the 18 individuals still unaccounted for. The operation involves a coordinated response from Turkish and Turkish Cypriot authorities. Coast guard vessels, helicopters, and aircraft, have been deployed to scour the area for survivors.The prime minister of northern Cyprus, Ünal Üstel, described the event as a tragic maritime disaster. Turkish Cypriot President Tufan Erhürman expressed sorrow, and officials in northern Cyprus have declared three days of national mourning. The internationally recognized government of Cyprus has also extended an offer of assistance for the ongoing search and rescue operations. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conveyed his condolences and assured close coordination in rescue efforts.
