New allegations in the investigation into the Filo Jet that sank off the coast of Kyrenia: The ship had previously been in an accident

The investigation into the maritime disaster that occurred off the coast of Kyrenia in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) continues. Eight people lost their lives and search efforts for 20 others are ongoing after the Filo Jet, owned by Filo Denizcilik, capsized while en route from the TRNC to Mersin.

As part of the judicial process initiated following the disaster, a three-day detention order was issued for nine suspects brought before the court. It was reported that teams and vessels sent from Turkey are also supporting the search and rescue operations.

TRNC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel stated that search efforts are continuing uninterrupted, saying, "Our prayers are for reaching our missing people as soon as possible. Our search and rescue efforts will continue until the end, day and night. Judicial and administrative processes will also be pursued with the same determination, and the facts will be brought to light in all their aspects."

THE SHIP'S HISTORY IS ALSO UNDER INVESTIGATION

According to information reflected in the investigation file, the history of the Filo Jet has also come under scrutiny. Assistant Inspector Mehmet Mannaş stated that the ship had an accident in Turkey 12 years ago and was not used until 2024.

Mannaş said that the ship was purchased by Filo Denizcilik in 2024 and that more than 100 people have been questioned as part of the investigation. Stating that there were a sufficient number of life jackets and lifeboats on the ship, Mannaş noted that the statements of many more people will be taken.

The investigation also reportedly includes complaints that the suspects did not provide sufficient assistance to the victims, despite being responsible for the operation and management of the ship. It is alleged that passengers were not given life jackets and that the necessary guidance for evacuation was not provided.

Naval Architect Erdal Kılıç also raised technical allegations regarding the ship during a broadcast by Cüneyt Özdemir. Kılıç said he saw the ship in 2016 when he was called for repairs, noting that the vessel had sustained damage to its bow after running aground in Taşucu.

Kılıç argued that the ship had "very severe structural damage," stating that the hull was of a "sandwich construction" type requiring high technology, and therefore the repair required a qualified and technically difficult process. Stating that he had indicated in the reports he prepared at the time that the ship should be repaired under class supervision, Kılıç claimed that the damage the ship had previously sustained was repaired by unqualified individuals.

News Source: 12punto