A ferry carrying 270 people capsized off the coast of Cyprus in the early hours of Sunday morning, killing at least seven people and leaving 23 missing. The vessel was heading from Kyrenia to the Turkish port of Tasucu when it sank approximately 2km north of Kyrenia.
Rescue operation underway
Turkish Cypriot coastguard boats were deployed to the scene alongside a search and rescue helicopter. Turkish Cypriot mayor Murat Senkul said 270 people were on the vessel, describing the situation as "serious". Authorities have confirmed at least seven deaths, with 237 people rescued.
Vessel details and response
The boat is understood to be a catamaran-style Filo Jet, over 40 metres long and 10 metres wide, reportedly sailing under the Turkish flag. Turkey's Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz said the country is providing "all possible support" to the ongoing search and rescue operation.
In a statement posted on social media, Mr Yılmaz said: "We are deeply saddened by the news we have received. A catamaran-type passenger ship has sunk after taking on water off the coast of Girne. Search and rescue operations have been launched by the TRNC and Republic of Turkey Coast Guard units and relevant institutions and are continuing without interruption. At this moment, our primary priority is the rescue of the passengers and crew. We are closely following the unfortunate incident that has occurred and providing all possible support to the search and rescue efforts. I extend my condolences to the passengers on board, the crew, and our nation."
