The captain and seven crew members of the Filo Jet passenger ferry, along with a company employee, were brought before the Girne (Kyrenia) District Court on Monday as authorities investigate the maritime disaster that killed eight people and left 18 missing off the coast of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
The high-speed passenger ferry, which was carrying 259 passengers and eight crew members, capsized shortly after leaving Girne Port for Taşucu in Mersin on Sunday. A total of 241 people were rescued, while eight people have died and search-and-rescue operations continued for 18 others.
The defendants include the vessel's captain, identified by the initials M.Ö., crew members M.S., M.G., S.E., V.H., R.İ., Z.Ö. and K.K., and company employee A.Ö.
Following the identification proceedings, the judge ordered that seven additional people wanted on suspicion of “causing death through negligence” be brought before the court.
During their statements, the captain and crew members said the vessel capsized after its bow broke away as a result of waves, causing water to enter the ship. They maintained that there were no problems with the weather when the vessel departed and argued that the Filo Jet had the necessary certifications and permissions to operate, both in terms of navigation and administrative requirements.
The court ordered authorities to collect technical data, hear witnesses and complete other documentation related to the case. It also requested information on whether a separate investigation had been opened in Türkiye.
The exact cause of the disaster remains under investigation. The vessel began taking on water shortly after leaving Girne and capsized while attempting to return to port. The wreck subsequently sank to a depth of more than 500 meters (1,640 feet), complicating efforts to establish exactly what happened on board.
The investigation has also expanded beyond the circumstances of the sinking itself. TRNC Public Works and Transport Minister Erhan Arıklı said authorities would examine allegations made by survivors, including claims concerning the vessel's safety procedures and the conduct of the crew.
A separate investigation by the ministry is also expected to examine the ship's documents, seaworthiness, port permits and safety measures.
Türkiye has been supporting the ongoing search-and-rescue operation. Turkish Coast Guard and Naval Forces units, as well as personnel from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), have been involved alongside TRNC rescue teams.
