Families devastated as no trace of 13 missing found in Filo Jet wreck

The families returned to Kyrenia Tourism Port after nine suspects arrested in connection with the disaster appeared before Kyrenia District Court earlier in the day. The court ordered all nine to remain in custody for a further seven days as the investigation into the sinking continues.

The Filo Jet sank off Kyrenia on August 30 while sailing between Kyrenia and Taşucu, triggering a major search and rescue operation and one of the most serious maritime disasters in recent North Cyprus history.

Deep-sea searches have continued around the wreck, which lies more than 500 metres below the surface, with the specially equipped Optimus Prime vessel carrying out underwater operations. Thirteen people remain missing.

Üstel visited relatives gathered at the port on Friday and briefed them on the latest work being carried out by Optimus Prime.

According to information given to the families, the search of the wreck has so far failed to locate any remains or other trace of the 13 people still missing.

The news caused scenes of distress at the port, with some relatives reportedly taken ill after hearing the latest findings. Families have now been waiting for almost a month for news of their loved ones.

Üstel is also understood to have told the families that the Filo Jet's black box had now been located. The voyage data recorder is regarded as a potentially crucial piece of evidence in establishing what happened in the period immediately before the vessel sank.

The development comes as investigators continue examining the condition of the vessel before the disaster, including previous damage and repair work. Police told the court on Friday that more than 320 statements had now been taken as part of the investigation.

After meeting the families, Üstel left Kyrenia Tourism Port without making a statement to the media.

A written statement from the Prime Ministry on the latest search operation and the reported recovery of the black box is expected.