Remnants of heroic Ottoman vessel from Turkish War of Independence times discovered
Remains of Rusumat 4, which was sunk in 1921 to escape Greek ships while delivering arms to Anatolia during the War of Independence, Giresun, Türkiye, July 19, 2024 (IHA Photo)
The Ottoman ship Rusumat 4, which was sunk in 1921 to evade Greek ships while transporting weapons to Anatolia During the Turkish War of Independence, is rediscovered through special dives conducted in Giresun’s Eynesil district.
During detailed examinations by particular divers, an anchor believed to belong to Rusumat 4 was found within an area of approximately 1 square kilometer (0.38 square miles).
The divers indicated the ship might be buried under sand in a riverbed about 100-150 meters offshore. Using underwater cameras, they have identified the anchor and some wreckage pieces.
The teams stated that the ship could be precisely located with a more extensive investigation.
Cultural, tourist significance
Ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) Giresun Member of Parliament professor Nazim Elmas examined the Topalli Creek site in Eynesil, where Rusumat 4 was sunk.
“We are initiating the necessary efforts to bring Rusumat 4, a significant asset for our Eynesil district and region, into Giresun’s culture and tourism. This great treasure will contribute significantly to both Eynesil and Giresun’s tourism. We hope to reach the ship’s wreckage and bring it to light as soon as possible,” Elmas stated.
Official Efforts, future plans
Eynesil District Governor Erkut Pamuk also inspected the site, saying: “We are conducting all official work to unearth the wreck of Rusumat 4, the heroic ship of the Ottoman Empire whose name is written in golden letters in world war history, and to commemorate the day it was sunk officially. Rusumat 4 will be a blessing for both our province and our district.”
Academic support, historical contributions
Lecturer Mevlut Kaya from Giresun University’s Kamil Nalbant Vocational School, who played a significant role in the discovery of Rusumat 4, commented: “This significant development in reaching the wreck of Rusumat 4, the only sunken ship of our War of Independence, offers tangible contributions to our region’s and country’s history, as well as significant tourism benefits.”
The remnants of Rusumat 4, uncovered through special dives in Giresun’s Eynesil district, are of immense historical and tourist importance.
This discovery adds value to the region’s culture and tourism and ensures the heroic ship of the Turkish War of Independence is remembered and passed on to future generations.
