Filo Jet Search Enters 11th Day as 14 Remain Missing

Operations around the wreck of the Filo Jet passenger vessel, which lies at a depth of 554 metres, are being conducted around the clock using military aircraft, drones and helicopters, as well as naval assets.

The vessel was travelling between Kyrenia and Taşucu when it capsized and sank shortly after leaving Kyrenia Tourism Port.

Of the 28 people reported missing following the disaster, the bodies of 14 have been recovered. Eight bodies were found on the first day, while six more were subsequently recovered during operations conducted by TCG Alemdar and TCG Işın.

Private Company Brought In for Deep-Sea Search

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel said yesterday that a private company with expertise and the necessary technical capacity for deep-sea searches had been brought into the operation.

He said technical and operational preparations had begun and that the work would be carried out under the coordination of the relevant authorities and in line with an established roadmap.

Additional Measures Discussed in Ankara

The latest stage of the search operation and additional measures to locate the missing people were also discussed during Üstel’s meetings in Ankara yesterday.

A high-level meeting with Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz was attended by Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler and Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu.

Üstel said the meeting reviewed the progress of the uninterrupted search operation, new technical capabilities that could be deployed to locate the missing people and the ongoing judicial process.

“Our state continues to act with determination and a commitment that goes beyond doing everything possible to reach our missing people. Every available resource is being mobilised. Every technical capability that can be accessed is being assessed. Every necessary step is being taken with determination to locate our missing people,” Üstel said.

Navigation Restrictions Remain in Place

Restrictions on navigation and maritime activities remain in effect in the area stretching from the Kaplıca region to Cape Kormakitis to ensure the search and rescue operation can continue safely and effectively.

The Ports Department suspended water sports activities in the area until further notice in a decision issued on September 3, restricted the operations of tour boats and prohibited the navigation and activities of other boats and fishing vessels within the designated search and rescue area.

A safe route has been established for vessels entering and leaving marinas.

Support for Families Continues

Meanwhile, Kyrenia Municipality, hotels, institutions, organisations and businesses in the area continue to support relatives of the missing people waiting outside Kyrenia Tourism Port.

Water and food are being provided to families throughout the day as their vigil outside the port continues into its 11th day.