Mystery boat found off Peyia

Maritime police are trying to identify the owners of a boat that was found stranded at sea with no one on board near Peyia, in the Paphos district, on Wednesday.

The vessel is around ten metres long and was spotted during a routine morning patrol by members of the maritime police.

According to maritime police spokesperson Philippos Constantinides, efforts are underway to find clues that could lead to the identity of the boat’s owner and to why it was found there.

However, he ruled out the possibility that anyone could be in danger.

“The boat was thoroughly checked by maritime police officers this morning and they did not find any indication or clue leading to people getting injured or that there was an accident on board,” Constantinides told the Cyprus News Agency.

“The investigation is now focusing on identifying whoever was driving the vessel and their current whereabouts. Most likely, bad weather in the area forced whoever was operating the vessel to abandon it and swim ashore.”

He also added that Deputy Shipping Minister Vassilis Demetriades has already been informed of the situation, as was the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC).

Maritime police officers are currently stationed near the site and continuing their investigations. In addition to that, divers are also inspecting the sea off the coast of Peyia in order to find more clues.