A ferry setting off from northern Cyprus for Turkey capsized after taking on water, killing at least eight people, with nearly 20 still missing as search operations continue.
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Key facts
- At least eight people have died after the ferry capsized.
- Nearly 20 people remain missing.
- The ferry was travelling from northern Cyprus to Turkey.
- The vessel began taking on water shortly after setting off.
- Search and rescue operations are continuing.
At least eight people have died after a ferry capsized off northern Cyprus, according to reports from Sky News and the BBC. Search and rescue teams are continuing efforts to locate survivors, with nearly 20 people still unaccounted for.
The BBC reported that the ferry started taking on water shortly after setting off on a journey towards Turkey. The vessel subsequently capsized, leading to the deaths of eight people confirmed so far.
Sky News described an anxious wait for news continuing in northern Cyprus, with families awaiting information about those still missing. The outlet reported that nearly 20 people remained unaccounted for as the search went on.
Both outlets indicate that the situation remains active, with the number of dead and missing subject to change as rescue efforts progress. The full circumstances of how the ferry came to take on water have not yet been detailed in the available reports.
Authorities have not, according to the sources, released a full passenger manifest or the identities of those killed or missing. The search for survivors was ongoing at the time of publication.
Why it matters
Ferry disasters can cause significant loss of life and leave families waiting anxiously for news of missing relatives. The outcome of the ongoing search will determine the final scale of this tragedy in the eastern Mediterranean.
Frequently asked questions
How many people died in the Cyprus ferry disaster?
According to the BBC and Sky News, at least eight people have died after the ferry capsized.
How many people are still missing?
Sky News reported that nearly 20 people remained missing, and the BBC noted a search was continuing for 18 passengers.
Where was the ferry going?
The BBC reported the ferry had set off from northern Cyprus bound for Turkey when it began taking on water.
Timeline
- Search continues for 18 passengers after ferry capsized in northern Cyprus
BBC World: Eight people have died after the ferry started taking on water shortly after setting off for Turkey.
- Capsized ferry disaster kills at least eight, as search for survivors continues
Sky News: An anxious wait for news continues in northern Cyprus with nearly 20 people still missing after a ferry capsized.