At least six people have died after the Express passenger ship capsized off the coast of Kyrenia, in the Occupied Territories of Cyprus.
The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, shortly after the ship, owned by Filo Jet, had set sail from the city's port. The incident reportedly occurred about three miles off Kyrenia, with 267 people on board.
So far, 159 people have been rescued, while the search and rescue operation continues at sea, despite difficult weather conditions and strong waves.
Ships, helicopters and other rescue vehicles have been deployed to the scene. The people pulled from the sea have been transported by ambulance to hospitals to receive the necessary medical assistance. The Republic of Cyprus has declared its readiness to assist in the search and rescue operation, making its capacities available if necessary.
KKTC from Mersin Taşucu Limanı'na sefer yapan bir yolcu gemisi, Girne 4 mil açığında alabora oldu.
267 crew members were mobilized. pic.twitter.com/g14f6kGdCf
— Sabah (@sabah) August 30, 2026
According to reports, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRC) has contacted UNFICYP to convey the offer of assistance to the Turkish Cypriot side. Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the ship's capsize and the causes that led to the maritime tragedy.
