The captain of a ferry that capsized off the northern coast of Cyprus appeared in court on Monday as rescuers continued searching for 20 people still missing following the disaster. The incident occurred on Sunday, when the ferry, carrying 267 passengers, overturned about four nautical miles from the port of Kyrenia, located in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Rescue teams managed to save 239 individuals, but at least eight people died in the accident, officials said. The search for the remaining missing persons is ongoing amid efforts to recover more survivors or victims. The nationalities of those affected have not been disclosed.

Authorities detained the captain along with several others connected to the ferry’s operation. According to reports, nine individuals—including the captain, seven crew members, and a company director—appeared in court in Kyrenia, facing charges related to negligent homicide. Northern Cyprus has declared three days of mourning in response to the tragedy.

In court, the captain and crew reportedly stated that the ferry’s bow was damaged by powerful waves, contributing to the capsizing. TRNC President Tufan Erhurman said divers were engaged in retrieving data from the vessel’s black box to determine the precise cause of the accident. He emphasized that the ferry company would be held accountable and expects to provide definitive information following the investigation.

The UN Secretary-General’s representative in Cyprus, Khassim Diagne, expressed deep sadness over the loss of life and extended condolences to the families of those affected.

Northern Cyprus, whose sovereignty is recognized only by Turkey, continues rescue and investigation operations amid wider concerns about ferry safety and maritime regulations in the region. The incident has drawn attention to operational oversight and raised questions about the vessel’s condition and preparedness at the time of departure from Kyrenia.