At least eight dead and 17 missing after ferry capsizes off northern Cyprus

At least eight people have died and 17 remain missing after a ferry carrying approximately 270 passengers and crew capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus on Sunday. The privately owned vessel departed from the port of Kyrenia heading for Tasucu, Turkey, before encountering difficulties shortly after departure. Survivors described the ferry moving erratically and shaking violently before the bow broke and water began pouring in. While the region experienced severe storms on Saturday, authorities noted that weather conditions on Sunday were considered suitable for travel. Tufan Erhurman, a Turkish Cypriot official, confirmed that the captain and seven crew members have been detained for questioning. The vessel has since sunk to a depth of 514 metres, and divers from Turkey are assisting in the search efforts. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the internationally recognised government of Cyprus have both extended their condolences regarding the disaster.