Families boo Turkish ambassador as he leaves Kyrenia ferry disaster site

Kyrenia, Cyprus. Families of people missing after a passenger ferry capsized off Cyprus’ northern coast booed Turkish ambassador in Nicosia Ali Murat Basceri as he left Kyrenia port on Monday afternoon.

Dozens of relatives had demanded that Basceri or another official address them directly on the ongoing search-and-rescue efforts. Eight people are known to have died and at least 18 remain missing.

Protest at the port

People gathered outside the port blocked the gate when Basceri attempted to leave the complex, saying that “no one will leave here without first explaining themselves”.

Shortly after 1.30pm, police officers moved those waiting away from the gate and cleared a route for Basceri’s vehicle to leave.

Basceri was seated in the rear of the car as police officers pushed through the crowd ahead of the vehicle. As it passed the gathering, protesters booed and shouted at him.

Search efforts continue

It was unclear who remained at the crisis desk inside the security forces’ building after Basceri’s departure. Dozens of family members of missing passengers remained outside the port entrance.

The ferry capsized shortly after departing the new port of Kyrenia at about 12.10pm on Sunday. It was travelling to the Turkish port of Tasucu with 259 passengers and eight crew members on board.