Search efforts for the 14 people still missing following the sinking of the passenger vessel Filo Jet off the coast of Kyrenia entered their 11th day on Wednesday, with operations increasingly focused on the wreck site, located at a depth of 554 metres.
Searches are continuing around the clock by air and sea, involving military aircraft, drones and helicopters. Particular attention is being given to the area surrounding the wreck.
Of the 28 people initially reported missing after the disaster, the bodies of 14 victims have so far been recovered, while another 14 remain unaccounted for.
Eight bodies were recovered on the first day of the tragedy. A further six were later located during operations involving the Turkish vessels TCG Alemdar and TCG Işın.
Specialist company joins deep-water search effort
A private company specialising in deep-water search operations has been authorised to participate in the effort.
Turkish Cypriot "prime minister" Ünal Üstel said technical and operational preparations had already begun and that the company would work in coordination with the relevant authorities.
According to Üstel, the deployment is intended to strengthen efforts around the wreck site and assist in locating the remaining missing passengers.
Talks held in Ankara on additional capabilities
The progress of the operation and the possible deployment of additional technical resources were also discussed during meetings held in Ankara on Tuesday.
Üstel met Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, while Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler and Turkish Naval Forces Commander Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu were among those who took part in the discussions.
According to Üstel, the meetings examined the progress of the search operation, additional technical options that could be deployed and developments in the judicial investigation into the disaster.
"All available capabilities are being utilised and every technical option is being evaluated," he said.
Maritime restrictions remain in place
Restrictions on navigation and marine activities remain in force in the area where the searches are taking place.
The restricted zone extends from Davlos to Cape Kormakitis.
Under a directive issued on 3 September, authorities suspended water sports activities until further notice, restricted the movement of tourist vessels and prohibited boats and fishing vessels from entering the designated search area.
Special routes have also been established for vessels entering and leaving marinas.
Families continue to await news
Relatives of the missing passengers remain gathered outside Kyrenia harbour, awaiting updates from the ongoing operation.
Local authorities, hotels, businesses and community organisations continue to provide food, water and other assistance to affected families as the search enters its second week.
The fate of the remaining 14 missing passengers remains unknown as search teams continue operations at sea and around the wreck site.
