Massive Search Operation Underway After Passenger Vessel Carrying Nearly 270 People Overturns Shortly After Leaving Kyrenia
Summary
At least seven people have been confirmed dead and 23 remain missing after a passenger ferry capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday. The vessel was carrying around 267 passengers and crew when it began taking on water shortly after departing from the port city of Kyrenia, also known as Girne.
Authorities have launched a major search and rescue operation involving coastguard vessels, helicopters, naval units and civilian boats. So far, 237 people have been rescued alive, while emergency teams continue searching the sea for those who remain unaccounted for.
Ferry Capsizes Shortly After Departure
The privately operated ferry had left Kyrenia and was heading toward the Turkish port of Tasucu in Mersin province when the disaster occurred.
Officials said the vessel started taking on water just a short distance from the coast. The exact cause of the accident has not yet been confirmed, although authorities are investigating whether weather conditions or a possible technical problem may have contributed to the capsizing.
Videos from the scene showed survivors in life jackets near the overturned vessel as rescue teams worked to pull people from the water.
Hundreds Rescued in Major Operation
Northern Cyprus authorities said 237 people had been rescued, but the search for the remaining missing passengers is continuing.
The rescue effort includes multiple coastguard vessels, helicopters and additional naval resources provided by Türkiye. Passenger ships and civilian vessels have also been deployed to assist in the emergency response.
Survivors have been transported to Kyrenia and nearby hospitals, where some are receiving medical treatment.
Leaders Express Condolences
Turkish Cypriot leaders expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and said all available resources were being mobilized to save lives.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also offered condolences to the families of those killed and said Türkiye had deployed its resources to support the rescue operation.
The disaster has shocked communities in northern Cyprus, where the ferry route between Kyrenia and Türkiye is regularly used by residents and visitors.
Cause of Accident Under Investigation
Authorities have not yet confirmed why the ferry capsized.
Initial reports indicate that the vessel began taking on water shortly after leaving port. Weather conditions in the area are also being examined as part of the investigation.
Investigators are expected to inspect the vessel and review operational records once conditions allow. The priority for authorities remains locating the missing passengers and providing medical assistance to survivors.
Search Continues for Missing Passengers
With 23 people still missing, rescue teams are racing against time.
Coastguard units are searching the surrounding waters, while helicopters are being used to cover a wider area. Authorities have urged people to avoid interfering with rescue operations and allow emergency services to continue their work.
The number of casualties could change as the search continues and officials gather more information about everyone who was on board.
Conclusion
The ferry disaster off northern Cyprus has resulted in one of the region’s most serious recent maritime emergencies. At least seven people have lost their lives, while 237 have been rescued and 23 remain missing.
A large-scale search operation is continuing with support from Turkish Cypriot and Turkish authorities. As families wait for news of their loved ones, investigators are also working to determine what caused the vessel to take on water and ultimately capsize.