Azerbaijani leader condoles Northern Cyprus over fatal boat capsizing

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has expressed condolences to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus President Tufan Erhürman and the families of those killed after a boat capsized near Kyrenia.

In a condolence letter addressed to Erhürman, Aliyev said, “We were deeply shocked by the news of the loss of life resulting from the capsizing of a boat near Kyrenia,” Caliber.Az reports.

“On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my deepest condolences to you, the families and relatives of those who lost their lives, and your brotherly people, and wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” the Azerbaijani president said.

The president also offered a prayer for those who lost their lives, saying, “May Allah rest the souls of those who lost their lives in peace!”

The deadly accident occurred on August 30, when the Filo Jet, carrying around 267 people from Kyrenia to Taşucu in Türkiye, took on water after encountering strong waves and capsized several miles offshore. 

At least eight people were killed, and nearly 20 others remained missing. The captain and crew were detained as authorities continued their investigation and search operations, with Turkish divers also taking part in efforts to locate those still unaccounted for.

By Jeyhun Aghazada