Two Ships Collide off Silivri as Search for 10 Crew Members Continues

Two Turkish-flagged commercial ships collided about 18 miles south of Silivri, off Istanbul, early Wednesday morning.

The ships, ALSU and TUĞBERK İMAMOĞLU, were travelling in opposite directions when they collided. ALSU reportedly suffered no damage, but contact was lost with TUĞBERK İMAMOĞLU, which had 10 crew members on board.

Search and rescue operations are continuing in the area. Authorities believe the vessel may have sunk in waters about 950 metres deep.

The Transport and Infrastructure Minister said the emergency call was received at 3:26 am and that the ship appears to have sunk within about 11 minutes. All 10 crew members were Turkish citizens.

No crew members have been reached alive so far, and search and rescue teams remain at the scene.

Search and Rescue Operation Underway

Authorities are continuing efforts to locate the missing vessel and its crew. Further information is expected as the search operation develops.