Kyrenia ferry shipwreck death toll reaches 27

The death toll from the shipwreck off the coast of Kyrenia has risen, with 27 bodies recovered from the sea. Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Unal Ustel stated that only one person remains unaccounted for following the disaster that occurred on August 30.

The vessel, identified as the “Filo Jet” operated by Filo Denizcilik, was traveling from Kyrenia to Taşucu, Turkey, with 259 passengers and eight crew members on board when it capsized. Initial reports suggest the ship may have experienced technical malfunctions or overloading after showing signs of distress shortly after departure.

Legal proceedings are underway following the incident. Nine individuals, including the captain Mustafa Oz, seven crew members, and a company representative, have been arrested and remain in custody. Investigations have revealed that a crack had reportedly appeared on the side of the vessel in June, approximately two months before the sinking, and repairs were allegedly carried out at that time.