Authorities in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) have suspended port officials who authorised the departure of a passenger ferry that capsized off the coastal city of Girne, Prime Minister Unal Ustel said, as search teams continued looking for 18 missing people.
Ustel said on Monday that the government had launched a full investigation into the disaster and would not allow any negligence or wrongdoing to be concealed.
“The relevant port officials who authorised the ship's departure have also been suspended from duty, an investigation has been launched against them, and new officials have been appointed in their place,” he said.
A Turkish Navy Underwater Offense (SAT) team dispatched from Türkiye has joined the ongoing search and rescue operation, Ustel said, adding that finding the missing passengers remains the government’s top priority.
14 suspects appear in court
Fourteen people were brought before the Girne District Court on Monday as investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the capsizing.
The suspects include the ferry’s captain, seven crew members, a company employee and two Girne Port officials. Police are also searching for two additional people under a court order.
The captain and crew told the court that the vessel overturned after its bow broke off amid rough waves. They said weather conditions appeared suitable when the ferry departed and that the vessel had valid navigational and administrative certificates.
The court ordered police to examine passenger-recorded videos and investigate the ferry’s previous accident and repair history as part of a technical inquiry.
Nine suspects, including the captain, first officer, a company employee and several crew members, were ordered held for another three days. Five others, including two port officials, were released pending trial.
The next hearing is scheduled for Thursday, when investigators are expected to present additional statements, documents and other evidence.
Search continues after eight deaths
The Filo Jet capsized while attempting to return to Girne Port after taking on water through its bow shortly after departure.
The ferry was carrying 267 people — 259 passengers and eight crew members. Authorities said 241 people were rescued, eight died and 18 remain missing.
Relatives of some passengers gathered outside the court and protested as the suspects were brought before the judge.
Ustel pledged that any negligence, fault or responsibility uncovered by the investigation would be addressed under the law.
