Ferry with 270 onboard capsizes off northern Cyprus as frantic rescue operation underway

A FERRY packed with 270 people has capsized off the coast of northern Cyprus. Around 100 of those on board have not yet been reached, Kyrenia mayor Murat Senkul said. Rescue boats bring passengers to shore from a ferry carrying 270 people in northern Cyprus Credit: Reuters Survivors are taken to shore after the boat capsized Credit: Reuters A frantic rescue operation has been launched Credit: Reuters Kyrenia, Cyprus Credit: Alamy A massive search and rescue operation has been launched. The boat was ferrying 258 passengers from Kyrenia (Girne) and was heading to the Turkish port of Tasucu when disaster struck. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! It started taking on water a few miles off the coast, according to Turkish state-run TRT news. The passenger ship Express then capsized, with several injuries but no casualties so far reported. Mayor Murat Senkul said the vessel had 270 people on board, counting both passengers and crew. He called the situation “very serious”. Three coast guard boats and several private boats rushed to help those on the fast-sinking boat. Public works minister Erhan Arikli said: “Unfortunately, the ship is now upside down. Most read in The Sun “Work continues for the evacuation of approximately 260 passengers.” More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun. Comment now