putri-anggraini
Rescue operations in northern Cyprus are ongoing as authorities grapple with the aftermath of a devastating ferry accident that has left 18 passengers unaccounted for and eight confirmed dead. The ferry, which was en route from Kyrenia to Tasucu in Turkey, capsized shortly after departing the coastal town, resulting in a chaotic and desperate search for survivors.
The incident occurred on Sunday, when the vessel, carrying 259 passengers and eight crew members, began taking on water. Despite immediate efforts to stabilize the ship, it eventually capsized off the coast of Kyrenia. Local authorities have confirmed that eight people have lost their lives in the disaster, with 19 others receiving medical treatment in hospitals in the northern part of the island.
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a self-proclaimed entity recognized only by Turkey, has declared a three-day period of national mourning to honor the victims. The ferry, a high-speed vessel known as the Filo Jet, has now completely sunk to a depth of 514 meters (1,686 feet), with debris scattered across the water, including a black wheelie suitcase and a sheet of steel that appeared to have broken away from the ferry.
Efforts are underway to recover the vessel's black box recorder, which could provide crucial information about the cause of the incident. The privately owned ferry, which sails under the flag of Turkey, left Kyrenia at approximately 12:30 local time, en route to Turkey. Its journey was initially delayed due to poor weather conditions.
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel of the TRNC told local media that the ferry was struck by two waves before it capsized. He explained that while the captain was attempting to recover from the impact of the first wave, a second, more powerful wave hit the vessel, causing it to begin taking on water.
Among the missing are Ayten Bicer's two children, her 12-year-old daughter Miray and six-year-old son Mehmet Asaf. Bicer recounted a harrowing tale of survival, describing how she felt Miray slip out of her hands as they tried to cling to the overturned boat. Despite her efforts to hold on, a suitcase fell on top of her, forcing her daughter from her grip. She managed to grab hold of her daughter's foot, but the shoes were coated in engine oil from the overturned vessel, and she slipped through her hands.
Survivors and relatives of the missing are gathered at the port in Kyrenia, awaiting news of their loved ones. The ferry, a 40-meter long, 10-meter wide Filo Jet vessel, is operated by Filo Denizcilik, which expressed its deep sadness over the tragic accident.
The TRNC, which controls the northern third of the island of Cyprus, has been divided since 1974. The incident has once again highlighted the challenges faced by the region, as well as the importance of safety measures for maritime travel. As the search for the missing continues, the international community remains in shock and solidarity with the affected families.
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