A rescue operation is underway in the Mediterranean after a passenger boat heading from northern Cyprus to Turkey capsized, local media reported.
There were nearly 300 people on board the vessel, according to Turkish Cypriot media.
The Minister of Public Works of the Turkish republic of Northern Cyprus, Erhan Arikli, told Turkish state television that the vessel had set out from Kyrenia and was heading to the Turkish port of Mersin Taşucu when it started to take on water.
“Unfortunately, the ship is now upside down. Work continues for the evacuation of approximately 260 passengers,” Arikli said.
Coast Guard boats, helicopters and civilian boats in the area are involved in rescue efforts, he added. Video from the scene showed at least one helicopter hovering above the capsized vessel.
