Tragedy Strikes as Ferry Capsizes Near Northern Cyprus: Seven Confirmed Dead

Ferry Disaster Off Northern Cyprus

Bodrum (Turkey): A tragic incident occurred off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday, where a ferry carrying approximately 270 individuals capsized, resulting in at least seven fatalities, according to reports from Turkish media.

Northern Cyprus Prime Minister Unal Ustel informed the Turkish state-run TRT news channel that 237 individuals have been rescued, while efforts are ongoing to locate 24 others who remain unaccounted for.

Ustel explained that the ferry encountered severe weather shortly after its departure, leading to water intake just 15 minutes into the journey. A distress signal was sent shortly thereafter.

The catamaran ferry was en route from Kyrenia, also referred to as Girne, located in the Turkish-controlled area of Cyprus, to the Turkish port of Tasucu in Mersin province.

Kyrenia's Mayor, Murat Senkul, confirmed that the vessel was operated by the Filo Denizcilik ferry company and sank near Diana beach along Cyprus's northern shoreline.

Reports indicate that the ferry began taking on water approximately 7.5 kilometers (4 nautical miles) from the coast, as stated by TRT.

Footage from the scene reveals individuals wearing life jackets floating in the waters surrounding the overturned ferry.