Shipwreck of Filo Jet ferry off Kyrenia coast leaves 20 missing

On Sunday, August 30, 2026, the passenger catamaran Filo Jet capsized and sank at a depth of approximately 514 to 550 meters while attempting to return to the port of Kyrenia shortly after departing for Tasucu, Turkey. Out of 267 people on board, 239 have been rescued, eight confirmed dead, and 20 remain missing. Authorities in the occupied areas of Cyprus have launched an extensive, round-the-clock search operation involving specialized vessels and remote-operated underwater vehicles from Turkey to assess the wreckage, where many are feared to be trapped.

As the search enters its fourth day, tensions are high among the families of the missing, who have been camping at the port seeking information. Public anger has mounted against local officials regarding maritime safety protocols and the vessel's maintenance history. A survivor’s report of discovering bodies inside the vessel prompted an investigation by local police, while the vessel's owner and crew are currently detained. On September 2, authorities confirmed the recovery of one body from the wreckage, with search efforts expected to continue indefinitely to locate the remaining individuals.