**Kyrenia “Mayor” Criticizes Ticket Price Increases Following Shipwreck Tragedy**
Kyrenia, August 31, 2026 – The self-proclaimed “mayor” of occupied Kyrenia, Murat Şenkul, has expressed strong disapproval of the recent surge in ticket prices for travel following a tragic shipwreck that has left many families in distress. The shipwreck has resulted in the disappearance of 20 individuals, prompting a heightened demand for travel as people seek to return home or support their loved ones.
In a statement regarding the situation, Şenkul highlighted that ticket prices, which were previously set at 6,000 Turkish lira, have skyrocketed to 22,000 lira. He described this price hike as “not normal,” attributing it to what he termed “forced demand” in the wake of the disaster. “Even under these circumstances, we couldn’t escape commercial logic. Shame on all of us,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for compassion and rationality in the face of tragedy.
The mayor acknowledged the expected rise in demand for transportation following such a catastrophic event but condemned the resulting price increases as exploitative. He urged that daily life in Kyrenia should return to normal as soon as possible, despite the ongoing search for the missing individuals.
Şenkul noted that hundreds of passengers have been waiting at the city’s port under challenging conditions, with many facing urgent travel needs due to expired leave or other pressing commitments. He called for shipping companies, not directly involved in the disaster, to resume their services, contingent on favorable weather conditions. He suggested that adjustments could be made to the port’s exit routes to ensure that ongoing search operations for the missing would not be disrupted.
The community of Kyrenia remains deeply affected by the shipwreck, grappling with feelings of sadness and anxiety. Şenkul acknowledged these emotions but insisted that they should not hinder necessary actions to restore normalcy. He expressed confidence that Kyrenia would recover from this tragedy, stating, “Lessons will be learned from the mistakes that led to the tragedy, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
As the search for the missing continues, the local authorities are under pressure to address the immediate needs of the community while ensuring that the tragic events are thoroughly investigated. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments as families await news of their loved ones.
In related news, Cyprus has pledged €200,000 in aid to support flood-hit Nepal, demonstrating the island's commitment to humanitarian efforts beyond its borders.
As the community of Kyrenia navigates this challenging time, the focus remains on supporting those affected by the shipwreck and ensuring that such tragedies do not recur in the future.