A ferry carrying dozens of migrants capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday, leaving at least 14 people dead, including children. The vessel, which had been heading from Turkey, went down in rough seas near the port of Famagusta, according to local authorities.
Rescue operation and casualties
Coast guard teams and fishing boats rushed to the scene after receiving distress calls, pulling survivors from the water. At least 30 people were rescued and taken to hospitals in Famagusta and Nicosia, where several remain in critical condition. The death toll is expected to rise as search efforts continue, officials said.
The ferry, which was overcrowded, had departed from Mersin in southern Turkey. Survivors reported that the vessel began taking on water shortly after leaving port, and that many passengers lacked life jackets. Witnesses described scenes of panic as the boat listed and sank within minutes.
Background and investigation
Northern Cyprus, a breakaway state recognized only by Turkey, has seen a rise in migrant arrivals in recent months, with many attempting to reach the island from the Turkish coast. The Turkish Cypriot authorities have opened an investigation into the incident, focusing on the vessel's condition and the circumstances of its departure.
The disaster has prompted renewed calls for safer migration routes and stricter enforcement of maritime regulations. The UN refugee agency expressed condolences and urged both sides to cooperate in preventing further tragedies.
