A ferry capsized off the coast of Cyprus in the early hours of Sunday morning, leaving at least seven people dead and 23 others missing. The vessel was travelling from Kyrenia to Tasucu, a Turkish port, when it sank approximately 2km north of Kyrenia.
Rescue operation underway
Turkish Cypriot coastguard vessels were dispatched to the location along with a search and rescue helicopter. Turkish Cypriot mayor Murat Senkul stated 270 people were aboard the craft, describing the circumstances as "serious". Authorities have confirmed at least seven people have perished following the incident.
A further 23 people remain unaccounted for, with 237 having been saved. The vessel is believed to be a catamaran-style Filo Jet, which measured over 40 metres in length and 10 metres in width. Reports indicate it was operating under the Turkish flag.
Official response
Turkey's Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz has stated the nation is offering "all possible support" to the continuing search and rescue mission following the ferry tragedy off Kyrenia.
In a statement published 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."
