TRNC detains ship captain, 7 crew after deadly maritime disaster

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Prime Minister Ünal Üstel on Sunday described the capsizing of a passenger vessel off Kyrenia as "the biggest maritime disaster Cyprus has experienced," stating: "The ship's captain and seven crew members have been detained as part of the investigation into the capsizing." Ustel said authorities launched the probe immediately after the incident occurred, mobilizing all available resources to locate those still missing while vowing that those responsible for any negligence would face accountability.

Search-and-rescue operations

The initial response involved four Coast Guard boats, two helicopters, a patrol vessel and an assault boat belonging to the Turkish Cypriot Peace Forces, alongside diving teams from the Civil Defense Organization and police units with four search-and-rescue boats, Ustel said in a written statement. The operation was subsequently reinforced with two aircraft, four helicopters, four unmanned aerial vehicles and four Coast Guard boats assigned by the Turkish Armed Forces, he added. Search-and-rescue efforts would continue uninterrupted until all missing people are found, according to the prime minister.

Vow for full accountability

Ustel stressed that the investigation would examine every aspect of the disaster, adding: "This incident will be investigated in every aspect. If there is even the slightest negligence, it will be uncovered. Whoever is at fault and bears responsibility will be held accountable." He extended condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery, noting that both the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Türkiye had committed all available resources to the operation.