Nine people, including the captain, seven crew members and a company employee, appeared before the self-declared “court” following Sunday’s deadly Filo Jet disaster off Kyrenia.
Eight people died and 18 remain missing after the passenger vessel capsized while attempting to return to port.
Arrested individuals appear in court
The proceedings began following the arrests of captain M.Ö., seven crew members and a company employee as authorities investigate the circumstances of the accident and possible responsibility for the deaths.
After the defendants’ identities were confirmed, the judge ordered that the seven people being sought on suspicion of “causing death through negligence” be brought before the court.
The hearing was scheduled to continue at 11:30 am with the appearance of those individuals.
Captain says bow broke in waves
In statements before the court, the captain and crew members said the incident began after the vessel’s bow was damaged by waves.
They also maintained that weather conditions had not posed a problem when the vessel departed and that the ship held the required licences for navigation and operation.
According to the report, the captain told the court: “The bow broke from the waves.”
Court requests further evidence
The court in the occupied areas requested additional evidence on the circumstances of the accident as the investigation continues and authorities examine whether there were omissions or other responsibilities.
The requested material includes technical data, witness examinations, information on whether a corresponding investigation has begun in Turkey and completion of the remaining relevant documents.
Vessel capsized while returning
The Filo Jet, a high-speed passenger vessel operating on the Kyrenia–Taşucu route in Mersin, began taking on water from its forward section shortly after leaving Kyrenia port on Sunday afternoon.
The vessel attempted to return to Kyrenia but capsized while making its way back to the port.
A total of 267 people were aboard, including 259 passengers and eight crew members.
According to the available figures, 241 people were rescued, eight died and search and rescue operations continue for 18 missing people.
Also read: Turkish deputy foreign minister visits Kyrenia shipwreck survivors
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