Filo Jet shipwreck investigation reveals maritime license scandal

Court documents have revealed significant negligence regarding the sinking of the passenger vessel Filo Jet near Girne. Investigations into the disaster, which has resulted in 10 deaths and 18 missing persons, indicate a chain of preventable errors.

Key findings show that the captain, M. Ö., allegedly bypassed local certification requirements by purchasing a maritime license from Honduras for $3,500 after his Turkish credentials expired. While this document was recognized under certain local regulations, experts noted it lacked validity for Turkish-flagged vessels.

Furthermore, the second captain, M. N. S., reportedly warned the captain to abort the voyage because the ship was taking on water. Despite these warnings and the fact that Taşucu Port was closed until 15:00 on the day of the incident, the captain proceeded with the journey. Expert reports suggest that had the vessel slowed down upon detecting water ingress, it might have been able to return safely to Girne Port.