Mother recounts losing grip on daughter as ferry capsizes off northern Cyprus, killing eight

Ayten Bicer and her husband Hayri were among the survivors of the disaster, which occurred when the ferry sank while travelling from the coastal town of Kyrenia to Tasucu, Turkey. The vessel was carrying 259 passengers and eight crew members.

Speaking through tears to reporters, Ayten Bicer said her daughter Miray, 12, and six-year-old son Memhet Asaf are among the missing. She recalled her daughter saying, "Don't let go" as the boat overturned. A suitcase fell on top of her, forcing her daughter from her grip. She managed to grab hold of her daughter's foot, but her shoes were coated in engine oil from the overturned vessel and she slipped through her hands.

"It was slippery everywhere. It was like oil. She slipped out of my hand," Bicer said.

Hayri Bicer described the family's return to Turkey after a holiday on the Mediterranean island. "We couldn't intervene, we lost our children," he said. "Two of my three children are gone. We left them. We are leaving them on this island as we go."

Local authorities report that 19 passengers are being treated in hospitals in northern Cyprus. The eight crew members, including the ship's captain, and one other man were formally arrested on Monday and will be detained for three days. Warrants have been issued for several other people.

The ferry had been scheduled to travel to Turkey on Saturday but its departure was delayed. The cause of the capsizing is under investigation.

Why This Matters

The disaster has left families grieving and waiting for news of missing loved ones, with the search ongoing.
The incident raises questions about the safety of ferry operations between northern Cyprus and Turkey, a route used by many tourists and residents.
The arrest of crew members and issuance of warrants signal potential legal consequences and a push for accountability.

Background

This ferry route connects Kyrenia, a major tourist hub in the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognised only by Turkey), with the Turkish mainland. The region's contested political status affects maritime regulation and safety oversight. The vessel was privately owned and had been delayed by a day before departing.

Key Perspectives

Families of the missing: They are desperate for information and clinging to hope as rescuers search the waters. The emotional testimony of Ayten Bicer highlights the trauma of survivors. Authorities in northern Cyprus: They have detained the crew and captain, suggesting an investigation into possible negligence or mechanical failure. The arrests indicate a focus on legal accountability. Safety advocates: The incident may prompt calls for stricter safety standards on ferries operating in the region, particularly given the lack of international recognition of the northern Cypriot administration.

What to Watch

The outcome of the search for the 20 missing passengers, including the two Bicer children.
The results of the investigation into the cause of the capsizing and any charges filed against the crew or operators.
Potential changes to maritime safety regulations in the region following the disaster.

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