Nearly 20 missing after ferry capsizes off northern Cyprus, killing eight

Nearly 20 people remained missing on Monday after a ferry capsized off northern Cyprus, killing at least eight. Divers joined the search for survivors in waters more than 500 meters deep.

The double-hulled vessel carried 267 people when it took in water and overturned on Sunday shortly after leaving Kyrenia for the Turkish port of Taşucu in Mersin province. Survivors clung to the overturned hull before passing vessels and coastguard authorities rescued them.

The number of missing remained unclear, with officials giving estimates of 18 and 19. It was also unclear whether anyone remained trapped inside the ferry, which was lying on the seabed.

Relatives and friends waited at the port through the early hours of Monday. Naif Ezer, who was waiting for news of three friends traveling home to see their families, said one had been found while two remained missing. Some people sat and wept silently, while others checked their phones for updates.

Separate accounts said the vessel jolted violently before hitting the sea surface, with part of its bow breaking open on impact. Turkish divers assisted the search. Authorities detained the captain and seven crew members for questioning.

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We’ve been waiting since the morning, for 12 hours or maybe more.