"Has my wife died? I'm a sick man. I can't take any more."
The desperate plea of a man addressing Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman outside the crisis management centre at Kyrenia harbour on Sunday night captured the anguish of families waiting for news of loved ones following the sinking of the FİLO JET catamaran.
At the same time, a large-scale search operation involving aircraft, drones, helicopters equipped with night-vision capabilities and ships was continuing in an effort to locate those still missing after the vessel sank in waters more than 500 metres deep.
By late Sunday, authorities had confirmed eight deaths and 249 survivors, while searches continued for 18 people who remain unaccounted for.
Search operation continues
Dozens of air and sea assets from the north and Türkiye are participating in the operation.
A specialised vessel is also expected to assist with deep-water search efforts.
Authorities in the north have declared three days of "national mourning" until sunset on 2 September.
Families wait for news
Anxiety among relatives has intensified, with families gathering outside Kyrenia harbour and hospitals seeking information about missing loved ones.
According to Turkish Cypriot media reports, children are among those missing.
Some relatives have also turned to social media, sharing photographs and personal details in an effort to locate family members.
Investigation under way
An investigation into the causes of the disaster is continuing following the detention of eight crew members.
Authorities are examining all possible factors that may have contributed to the sinking.
Experts say investigators will need to assess not only the cause of the vessel's loss, but also:
- The speed at which the catamaran listed.
- The condition of the hull.
- The operation of watertight doors.
- The distribution of passengers and cargo.
- Whether evacuation procedures were carried out correctly.
- Whether life-saving equipment was deployed promptly and effectively.
The findings are expected to play a key role in determining how the disaster unfolded.
