A tragic incident occurred off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday when a ferry carrying nearly 270 passengers and crew capsized. Reports from Turkish media indicate that at least seven people have lost their lives as a result of this disaster. Rescue efforts are currently underway as authorities work to locate and assist survivors.
7 Killed, 24 Missing After Boat With 270 People On Board Overturns In Cyprus
The catamaran-style ferry was traveling from the port of Kyrenia, also known as Girne, in the breakaway north of ethnically divided Cyprus, to the Turkish port of Tasucu in Mersin province. Video footage from the scene shows people with life vests floating in the waters around the overturned vessel. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.) Some 237 people have been rescued, Northern Cyprus Prime Minister Unal Ustel told Turkish state-run TRT news channel. He said a search was underway for another 24 people. Ustel said the ferry faced adverse weather conditions and began taking in water just 15 minutes after departure. The ferry started taking in water about 7.5 kilometres (4 nautical miles) off the coast, TRT reported.
A call for help was issued shortly after, he said. Kyrenia Mayor Murat Senkul said the ship belonged to the Filo Denizcilik ferry company and sank off the coast of Diana beach on Cyprus’ northern coast.
