Turkish underwater robot delivered to ferry wreck site off Northern Cyprus

The search operation off the coast of Kyrenia has been continuing for a third day following the Filo Jet passenger ferry disaster. To search for the 20 people who are still listed as missing, Turkey has sent the specialized TCG Isin naval rescue vessel to the site of the tragedy, equipped with a remotely operated underwater vehicle. The robot is expected to survey the seabed and locate the sunken ferry, which is lying at a depth of more than 500 metres.

The ferry capsized shortly after leaving the port of Kyrenia while en route to Taşucu in Turkey. There were 267 passengers and crew members on board. The deaths of at least eight people have been confirmed, while 20 others have yet to be found. Most of those on board were rescued in the first hours after the disaster.

Forces from Northern Cyprus and Turkey have been involved in the large-scale operation. According to the latest reports, the search is being conducted simultaneously by sea and air, involving military and rescue vessels, helicopters, an aircraft, drones, divers and special units. The main challenge is the great depth at which the sunken vessel is located — around 500 metres.

The underwater vehicle aboard the TCG Isin can transmit images of the seabed and carry out a detailed survey of the wreckage. Once the ferry’s exact location has been identified, specialists will be able to begin further search and technical operations. The rescue vessel also carries specialists in deep-sea operations and divers.

The causes of the disaster have not yet been officially established. Survivors said that, before the vessel began to list rapidly and take on water, loud sounds were heard on board, after which panic broke out among the passengers. An investigation into the circumstances of the tragedy is continuing in parallel with the search operation.