“Prime Minister” Ünal Ustel dismissed the pseudo-state’s “transport minister,” Erhan Arikli, following the tragedy at the port of Kyrenia.
In his statements, Ustel announced that he had relieved Arikli of his “duties” “so that the investigation into the maritime accident can be conducted without the slightest doubt.”
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
He noted, among other things, that as the “head” of the “executive branch,” it is my duty to take all necessary “administrative” measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the investigation and to restore public confidence.
SEE ALSO: The “Filo Jet”—a watery grave: The first body has been recovered from the wreckage of the ill-fated catamaran
Oustel also emphasized that the decision to “suspend” Arikli does not mean he is guilty and referred to the presumption of innocence:
“Until the courts have ruled, none of those whom we have suspended or removed from their duties can be declared guilty. The presumption of innocence applies to everyone. The investigation will proceed swiftly, thoroughly, and transparently. Anyone found to have acted negligently or to bear responsibility will be held accountable in accordance with the court’s decision.”
He added that “whoever is responsible will be held accountable for it.”
It should be noted that the death toll from the tragedy has risen to 9, following the recovery of yet another body from the sunken catamaran, with 19 people still missing.
SEE ALSO: VIDEO: The sea has begun washing up pieces of the ill-fated catamaran that sank off Kyrenia
