On August 30, a passenger ferry sank off the coast of Northern Cyprus. Survivors described how the ship’s captain and crew members ignored reports of incoming water and evacuated first, leaving passengers behind.
The vessel had been scheduled to depart on Saturday, August 29, but was canceled due to severe storm conditions at sea. The ferry was en route to Tashuja, a port in Turkey, when it began taking on water.
According to eyewitness accounts cited by A Haber TV channel, water initially started flowing into the ship. Passengers reported that crew members claimed the situation was “normal,” but as more water appeared, the captain declared, “Everything is fine.” Shortly after, a hole formed in the front of the ship. The crew ordered passengers to evacuate but prioritized their own departure.
Another passenger noted that inadequate life-saving equipment forced children and elderly individuals to hide under seats. Those who managed to locate life jackets were able to escape the sinking vessel.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the area. The Prime Minister of the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Unal Ustel, confirmed at least seven people died in the incident.
