The three Azerbaijani nationals detained as part of an investigation into a shipwreck off the coast of Girne, Northern Cyprus, which claimed eight lives, are not responsible for the incident, Chairman of the Azerbaijan-Cyprus Friendship Society Orkhan Hasanoglu said.

Axar.az informs, citing Repоrt, he said investigative materials are being collected regarding Azerbaijani nationals Valeh Humbatov, Rashad Ibrahimov and Gadir Guliyev, who were detained as part of the investigation.

"The second preliminary court hearing was held today. However, the court is not yet at the stage of making a decision regarding the cause of the accident. Our citizens did not hold positions of sufficient authority to make decisions about whether this accident would occur or not," he said.

Hasanoglu noted that the three Azerbaijani nationals working on the ship were technical staff.

"At the first preliminary hearing, a three-day detention measure was imposed on them. This decision does not mean that they, or any members of the crew, including our citizens, are guilty. This will become clear during the investigation. Over the past three days, the police have taken statements from nearly 100 people, including participants in the incident, passengers and personnel at the ship's port.

"Today, the court held the second preliminary hearing and, due to insufficient evidence, set the date of the next hearing for eight days later," he said.

Hasanoglu said the Azerbaijani nationals had risked their lives to help others during the serious accident.

"There are no criminal materials against our citizens. They acted entirely on humanitarian principles, helping people there and trying to rescue them. They were not among the first to leave the ship. While the ship's captain and his assistant left the vessel and boarded boats brought by civilians, our citizens risked their lives and did their utmost to help people and care for them," he said.

He added that efforts are underway to ensure that the evidence and materials collected are submitted to the court.

"The lawyers there are trying to submit to the court as much as possible the video materials and footage in favor of our citizens, as well as materials based on passengers' testimonies. Over the next eight days, until the next hearing, we will try to collect as much material as possible," Hasanoglu said.

The shipwreck occurred off the coast of Girne, Northern Cyprus, on August 30. According to the latest reports, 240 people have been rescued, eight people have died, and search and rescue operations are continuing for 19 passengers.

Source: en.axar.az