Eight killed and others missing after ferry capsizes off northern Cyprus
At least eight people have been confirmed dead after a passenger ferry carrying around 267 people capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus, triggering a major search-and-rescue operation. Several passengers remain missing as emergency teams continue searching the waters near the coastal city of Kyrenia. The ferry had departed from Kyrenia, also known as Girne, and was travelling towards the Turkish port of Taşucu when it began taking on water shortly after leaving the coast. Reports said the vessel encountered difficulties during the journey before capsizing, leaving passengers struggling to escape into the sea. Rescue teams, including coast guard vessels, helicopters and other boats, were quickly deployed to the scene. Hundreds of people were rescued, while authorities continued searching for those still unaccounted for. The deep waters where the ferry sank have made the rescue operation particularly challenging. Officials have said the exact cause of the disaster remains under investigation. Weather conditions and possible technical issues are among the factors being examined. Authorities have also taken members of the ferry’s crew into custody as part of the investigation into the deadly accident. The tragedy has shocked communities across Cyprus and Turkey, with leaders expressing condolences to the families of those killed and concern for the people still missing. Rescue operations remain ongoing, and officials have promised a thorough investigation to determine how the disaster occurred.