On August 30, 2026, a high-speed ferry carrying approximately 267 people tragically capsized while traveling from Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus, to Tasucu, Southern Turkey, leaving at least six people dead. The Filojet ferry, which held about 259 civilians and eight crew members, began taking on water roughly four miles off the Kyrenia coast. The Turkish Cypriot coastguard, supported by rescue helicopters and boats, responded swiftly, rescuing 172 individuals by mid-afternoon and transporting them safely onshore. Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Ünal Üstel and Transport Minister Erhan Arikli arrived in Kyrenia to oversee the ongoing recovery and investigation efforts.
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel described the incident as “the biggest maritime disaster Cyprus has experienced,” highlighting its gravity for the region. In response to the capsizing, authorities intensified search-and-rescue operations, deploying four Coast Guard vessels, two helicopters, a patrol boat, and an assault boat from the Turkish Cypriot Peace Forces. Assistance from Türkiye further bolstered the operation, with additional aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Coast Guard boats combing the area for survivors and missing passengers.
Üstel announced that the ferry’s captain and seven crew members have been detained as part of a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the disaster. While the exact reason for the capsizing remains unclear, officials have pledged to leave no stone unturned, emphasizing that any negligence—no matter how minor—will be thoroughly scrutinized and those found responsible will face legal consequences.
As the search for missing individuals continues, Üstel expressed condolences to the victims’ families and wished the injured a swift recovery. Both the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Türkiye remain committed to the rescue efforts and ongoing investigation, determined to ensure accountability while providing support to those affected by the tragic event.
