World · Malaysia Bureau
Seven dead, dozens missing after ferry capsizes off Cyprus coast
A privately operated ferry capsized off northern Cyprus on Wednesday, leaving at least seven people dead and many others unaccounted for. The vessel began taking on water shortly after departing from Kyrenia port, prompting a major search and rescue operation.
LSN Malaysia ·
The ferry departed from Kyrenia at 0930 GMT on Wednesday and immediately encountered problems, according to authorities monitoring the incident. The cause of the water ingress remains under investigation, though initial reports suggest a mechanical or structural failure may have contributed to the rapid deterioration of the vessel's condition.
Emergency services launched a coordinated rescue operation following distress calls from the stricken vessel. Coast guard units and naval assets were deployed to the area, with personnel conducting search operations to locate survivors and missing passengers.
The exact number of people aboard the ferry at the time of the incident has not been definitively established, complicating casualty estimates. Rescue teams have recovered seven bodies, while search efforts continue for the missing passengers and crew members.
The incident has renewed scrutiny of maritime safety standards and vessel maintenance protocols in the region. Local authorities have indicated that a full investigation will be conducted to determine the precise circumstances that led to the capsizing and to establish responsibility for the vessel's operational status.