The detention period for nine individuals—including three Azerbaijani citizens—detained in connection with the shipwreck off the coast of Girne in Northern Cyprus, which resulted in eight fatalities, has been extended by another seven days.
Sea-news.az reports that Orkhan Hasanoglu, chairman of the Azerbaijan-Cyprus Friendship Society, provided this information to Report.
According to the report, a further court session was held as part of the ongoing investigation in Northern Cyprus into the sinking of the vessel and the disappearance of 14 people.
During the hearing, no separate charges were brought against the Azerbaijani crew members—Rashad Ibrahimov, Gadir Guliyev, and Valeh Humbatov.
The ongoing investigation concerning the detained individuals is being conducted under the charge of “causing death by negligence and carelessness.”
Orkhan Hasanoglu stated that the Azerbaijani citizens should be questioned as the closest witnesses to the tragedy rather than as suspects. He noted that it must be taken into account that the crew members did not hold primary authority regarding the vessel’s operation, technical condition, or decisions concerning its seaworthiness.
He pointed out that, unlike other responsible parties, the Azerbaijani crew members were among the last to abandon ship and risked their lives to assist the passengers.
According to the reports, the police investigative team has taken statements from nearly 300 individuals since the day the incident occurred.
Orkhan Hasanoglu stated that every possible measure will be utilized to protect the rights of the Azerbaijani crew members.
Recall that the maritime accident off the coast of Girne resulted in 8 deaths, while 14 people remain missing. Investigations into the causes of the incident and the identification of responsible parties are ongoing.
