The search continues for 18 people missing after yesterday’s sinking of the Filo Jet catamaran off occupied Kyrenia. So far, eight people have been confirmed dead and 241 rescued. A total of 267 people were on board, including 259 passengers and eight crew members.
The Filo Jet departed on Sunday afternoon for Taşucu in southern Turkey. Shortly after departure, it began taking on water, with the exact cause still under investigation. Survivors described the catamaran bouncing heavily over the waves before striking the surface of the sea with considerable force.
Cyprus had been hit by severe weather a day earlier. However, according to Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman, weather conditions on Sunday had been assessed as suitable for travel.
Searching inside the vessel is now particularly difficult, as it has sunk to a depth of about 514 metres.
The captain and the other seven crew members have been detained for questioning. The investigation is examining, among other things, possible technical failures, the condition of the hull and watertight doors, the vessel’s inspections, and how and when the evacuation took place.
The catamaran has sunk to a depth of about 514 metres, making it significantly more difficult to search inside. Operations are continuing by air and sea, involving aircraft, helicopters, drones and vessels.
Sources: Kathimerini, Philenews
