Girne Ship Disaster: North Cyprus Says Decision on Wreck Removal Is Near

North Cyprus Prime Minister Ünal Üstel said teams are continuing to search for 15 people missing after the Filo Jet sank off Girne, while specialists assess whether the wreck can be brought to the surface.

“Although conditions are becoming increasingly difficult as the days pass, especially underwater and inside the sunken ship, our teams working by air, sea, underwater and land are continuing their work without interruption,” Üstel said. He said reaching the missing people remains the sole objective.

Üstel inspected operations aboard the TCG Alemdar, which was searching off Girne. He said a decision on wreck-removal efforts should become clearer the following day. Technical staff from specialist private companies were examining the accident site and the wreck and preparing preliminary reports. Üstel said he would travel to Istanbul to review the findings with organizations experienced in deep-sea wreck operations.

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Although conditions are becoming increasingly difficult as the days pass, especially underwater and inside the sunken ship, our teams working by air, sea, underwater and land are continuing their work without interruption.

The high-speed passenger vessel operated between Girne Port in North Cyprus and Taşucu Port in Mersin. It began taking on water at its bow shortly after leaving Girne on August 30 and sank while attempting to return to the port.

Üstel said 267 passengers and crew had been aboard. After the sinking, 239 people were rescued, 13 bodies were recovered and 15 remained missing. The wreck has reportedly been located 554 meters below the surface. Üstel thanked Turkey for its support and the search teams for their efforts.

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We will clarify whether we can remove the wreck.