Cyprus coordinates successful rescue of ten sailors off Paphos

On the evening of Friday, October 30, 2026, the Cyprus Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) successfully executed a search and rescue operation for the crew of the Tanzanian-flagged merchant vessel AS DREAM. The ship, carrying ten crew members, began sinking approximately 90 nautical miles west of Paphos within the Cyprus Search and Rescue Region. The JRCC initiated the 'Nearchos' national plan at 20:15, deploying a National Guard helicopter, the coastal patrol boat Ammochostos, and a Police patrol vessel, Pentadactylos.

The operation was supported by the passing merchant ship MSC Hannah III, which initially rescued the crew. They were subsequently transferred to the Police vessel Pentadactylos and safely transported to the port of Limassol. Medical personnel from the Ambulance Service confirmed the sailors were in good health, and they were subsequently placed under the care of state authorities. Concerned embassies were notified through diplomatic channels.

While the rescue proceeded smoothly, the incident carries geopolitical significance as the operation occurred in a maritime area over which Turkey also asserts search and rescue jurisdiction. Despite these overlapping claims, Cyprus exercised its authority exclusively, without any Turkish involvement in the mission.