The maritime tragedy off the coast of Kyrenia, which claimed the lives of at least 12 people, is causing a political upheaval and bringing to light shocking revelations of corruption in the occupied territories. As the investigation progresses, evidence is coming to light that demonstrates close ties between the shipowner and political figures, as well as serious irregularities in the crew’s certification.
As reported by journalist Hatice Kerlo on Alpha TV’s news broadcast, the web of corruption that led to this terrible tragedy is unraveling, with attention focused on the dismissed “Minister of Public Works and Transportation,” Erhan Arikli. According to reports in the Turkish Cypriot press, the company “Filo Denizcilik” maintained close ties with the so-called government and particularly with Arikli’s Renaissance Party, as it was revealed that two of the company’s major shareholders are members of that party.
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Read more: Heartbreaking images: Debris from the ill-fated catamaran washes ashore in the waters off Kyrenia
Particularly striking is the fact that the captain of the ill-fated vessel was himself a party official of Arikli. The most scandalous aspect concerns his professional status, since, as reported, his controversial captain’s license was accepted by the so-called “ports department,” a service under the direct political supervision and responsibility of Erhan Arikli.
These revelations triggered a chain reaction, leading to the immediate “dismantling” of the hierarchy of the relevant “ministry.” Following Arikli’s own removal by Ünal Ustel, a three-part dismissal decree was issued, removing “Deputy Minister” Enver Ozturk, the “Director of the Ministry” Mustafa Ambar, and the “Director of the Ports Department” Emsal Emirzadeoglu, with Murat Salel assuming the position of deputy minister.
At the same time, ferry services resumed, with the companies making a desperate effort to allay the public’s intense concerns. “The companies are trying to convince the public that they are taking all necessary safety measures, which is why they’re conducting demonstrations of safety equipment before departure,” noted Hatice Kerlo, describing the climate of mistrust that has prevailed since the shipwreck.
