Northern Cyprus ferry disaster: at least seven dead as vessel capsizes – latest updates

A ferry carrying nearly 270 passengers and crew capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus on Thursday, resulting in at least seven fatalities, according to local reports. The incident occurred near the coastal town of Kyrenia, prompting a large-scale search and rescue operation. Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus Prime Minister Ünal Üstel confirmed that 237 people had been rescued, while noting that the vessel encountered severe weather shortly after departing.

The ferry, en route to the Turkish port of Mersin’s Taşucu district, began taking on water just 15 minutes into its journey, Üstel told TRT Haber. Adverse sea conditions, including strong winds and rough waves, were cited as contributing factors in the disaster. Rescue teams from Northern Cyprus and Turkey have been working in coordination to locate and retrieve survivors, with additional support from emergency services and local volunteers.

Authorities have not yet released the full passenger manifest or confirmed the nationalities of those on board. Search efforts are ongoing, with helicopters and boats scanning the waters off Kyrenia. The cause of the capsizing remains under investigation, though preliminary reports suggest structural or stability issues may have played a role.

Local hospitals in Kyrenia and nearby regions have been placed on standby to receive survivors requiring medical attention. The Turkish Red Crescent and civil defense teams are assisting with the evacuation and care of those rescued. Weather conditions are expected to remain challenging, potentially complicating recovery operations.

Northern Cyprus, a self-declared state recognized only by Turkey, has faced past maritime incidents due to its geopolitical status and limited search-and-rescue infrastructure. The government has pledged a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the capsizing.

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