**Search-and-Rescue Teams Prepare to Access Sunken Ferry Off Kyrenia Coast**
Kyrenia, Cyprus – Search-and-rescue teams are gearing up to reach the site of a sunken ferry off the coast of Kyrenia, with Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Unal Ustel announcing plans for an operation to commence on Tuesday afternoon. The ferry, which capsized recently, has left 20 individuals unaccounted for, prompting a significant response from local authorities and search teams.
During a visit to the crisis desk at the new port of Kyrenia on Monday, Ustel confirmed the arrival of the Turkish vessel TCG Isin, which is equipped to conduct underwater searches at depths of up to 3,000 meters. The vessel is expected to arrive in the waters off Cyprus on Tuesday morning, with plans to initiate search operations in the afternoon. The ferry itself is submerged at a depth of 514 meters, complicating recovery efforts.
The situation has become increasingly urgent, as families of the missing individuals gathered at the port, expressing their distress and desperation. One elderly man, whose wife is among the missing, confronted Ustel, pleading for assistance. “My family is gone. Do whatever is needed,” he implored, to which Ustel responded with a commitment to intensify rescue efforts. The man expressed a heartfelt desire to know the fate of his loved ones, whether they are alive or deceased.
The number of missing persons has risen from 17 to 20 as authorities continue to cross-reference the passenger list with the names of those who have been rescued. Ustel acknowledged the growing concern and confirmed that funerals are being organized for those who have been confirmed dead as a result of the ferry's sinking.
In light of the ongoing situation, Ustel emphasized that search and rescue operations are being conducted around the clock. A diverse array of resources, including boats, helicopters, and aircraft, are being deployed to maximize the chances of locating the missing individuals. “Efforts to reach our 20 missing people are continuing at full speed,” Ustel stated, underscoring the urgency of the mission.
As the search-and-rescue teams prepare to mobilize, the community remains hopeful for a positive outcome, while grappling with the emotional toll of the tragedy. The operation to recover the sunken ferry and locate the missing individuals is expected to be a complex and challenging endeavor, but authorities are committed to doing everything possible to bring closure to the families affected by this disaster.