Cyprus: Authorities say at least six people have died after a catamaran-style ferry carrying 267 passengers and crew capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus. The Turkish ambassador to Nicosia said 172 people had been rescued, with some taken to hospital, while 89 remain missing. The death toll has since risen to seven, according to the latest figures. France 24 correspondent Jasper Mortimer reports the latest from Ankara, Turkey.
According to France24.com, the rescue operations are ongoing as search teams continue to look for the missing individuals. The incident has prompted an immediate response from local and international rescue teams, who are working tirelessly to locate survivors and recover bodies. The Turkish and Cypriot authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the capsizing, with initial reports suggesting challenging weather conditions may have played a part in the tragic event.
In response to the disaster, local hospitals have been on high alert, ready to receive more survivors and provide medical assistance. Emergency services have been praised for their rapid response, with many survivors acknowledging the efforts of the rescuers. The incident has raised concerns over maritime safety standards in the region, with calls for stricter regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.