**Title: Survivors Claim Kyrenia Ferry Captain Refused to Return to Port Amid Distress**
**Kyrenia, Cyprus** – In the aftermath of a tragic ferry disaster off the coast of Kyrenia on Sunday, Turkish opposition New Party deputy leader Ali Mahir Basarir has revealed alarming testimonies from survivors regarding the actions of the ferry's captain, Mustafa Oz. During his visit to Cyprus, Basarir reported that every survivor he spoke with claimed they had urged the captain to turn back as the vessel began taking on water, but he allegedly refused their pleas.
“During our hospital visits, the survivors said, ‘we begged the captain to return, but he did not listen to us,’” Basarir stated. He expressed his intent to investigate the serious allegations surrounding the ferry, its crew, and the vessel’s condition, emphasizing that these matters would be pursued by a delegation from his party.
Survivors recounted harrowing experiences, with one woman recalling, “We told him to stop. We were telling him so much to stop. He did not stop. It was already clear when we were going, the boat was flying into the sky and landing back on the sea.” This account highlights the chaos and fear experienced by passengers as the ferry began to capsize.
The incident has raised significant concerns about the ferry's operational safety. Basarir noted that there are serious claims regarding a previous accident involving the ferry, as well as repairs that were allegedly conducted after that incident. He called for a thorough investigation by both the Turkish and Cypriot authorities to ensure accountability for those responsible.
In a troubling twist, local boat owner Mustafa Koc, who assisted in the rescue efforts, claimed that Captain Oz was among the first to abandon the sinking vessel, contrary to maritime tradition which dictates that captains should be the last to leave. Koc stated, “The captain of the boat got off first. I had the captain on board my boat. I took him. I also had the first mate.” This revelation has further fueled public outrage and scrutiny regarding the captain’s conduct during the emergency.
Additionally, questions have been raised about the legitimacy of Captain Oz's maritime credentials. Reports indicate that his captain’s license was issued by the Republic of Honduras in 2024, which has prompted inquiries into its authenticity. The Cyprus Mail has reached out to the Honduran Directorate-General of Merchant Maritime for confirmation but is still awaiting a response.
As investigations continue, Captain Oz remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday. The tragic event has already resulted in the loss of several lives, including a mother who reportedly sacrificed her own life jacket to save her daughter. Funerals for the victims, including a child, have been held, further underscoring the profound impact of this disaster on the community.
The sinking of the ferry has not only raised questions about safety protocols and the qualifications of maritime personnel but has also highlighted the need for stringent regulatory oversight in the ferry transport sector. As authorities work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident, the calls for accountability and justice from survivors and their families grow louder.