Six dead after ferry capsizes off Kyrenia

Kyrenia, Cyprus. At least six people died after the Filo Jet passenger catamaran Express, carrying 267 people, capsized about two kilometres off the coast shortly after departing Kyrenia on Sunday afternoon. Search and rescue operations were continuing.

Rescue operation

Turkish Cypriot leader Ünal Üstel said six bodies had been recovered and 172 people rescued. Civil defence and coast guard resources remained fully mobilised at the scene, he said, adding that further public updates would follow.

Three coast guard vessels and three private boats were deployed to the area. Ambulances were placed on standby at the port to transport survivors.

Passengers unaccounted for

Kyrenia “mayor” Murat Şenkul told CNN Türk that 159 passengers had been picked up, while initial headcounts indicated that around 100 people remained unaccounted for.

Authorities said passengers who were unaccounted for were not automatically presumed dead or officially missing, as many were floating in life jackets while awaiting rescue.

Vessel damage

Initial reports in Turkish Cypriot media said the ageing fibreglass vessel suffered severe damage and broke into two after capsizing. Questions were also raised over whether the materials used in its construction were suitable for maritime navigation.

Turkish Ambassador to Nicosia Ali Murat Başçeri earlier confirmed the fatalities and said emergency responders had brought a large number of passengers ashore safely.