On May 1, 2026, a complex rescue operation took place off the coast of Karasu (Sakarya Province, Turkey) in the Black Sea.
At approximately 14:46, the 80-meter cargo vessel Ninova, sailing under the Cameroon flag, sent a distress signal after encountering a severe storm. The vessel lost control and began drifting uncontrollably toward the shore.
Driven by hurricane-force winds and heavy waves, the ship was pushed to within just 85 meters from the coastline, where it ran aground and sustained hull damage. The vessel developed a slight list, and the crew reported water ingress.
Due to extreme weather conditions, rescue boats could not be launched, and helicopters were unable to take off.
There were 8 crew members on board:
— 1 Turkish national
— 7 Azerbaijani nationals
Under these conditions, rescuers initiated a shore-based evacuation. Using a line-thrower, a rope was successfully delivered to the vessel, allowing the installation of a rescue harness system. Crew members were then evacuated one by one to shore.
The last crew member reached land holding a Turkish flag, where he and the others were welcomed with applause from locals and rescue teams gathered on the beach.
The operation involved multiple agencies:
— Sahil Güvenlik (Coast Guard)
— AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management Authority)
— Kızılay (Red Crescent)
— Gendarmerie, police, and fire services
— Kıyı Emniyeti (Coastal Safety Authority)
The operation was completed at 16:14. All 8 crew members were successfully rescued, and their condition is reported as stable. After medical checks, they were transported by ambulances for precautionary observation.
