Migrants who reached Cyprus apply for asylum

A Cyprus civil defense spokeswoman says 15 migrants who arrived at Cyprus' northern coast from Turkey aboard a small boat have applied for asylum.

Olivia Michaelidou told the Associated Press Wednesday the 14 men and one woman will stay with relatives living in Cyprus until their asylum applications are processed.

Police said all 15 are Syrians who were located near the village of Mansoura after authorities were notified of their arrival late Tuesday.

Michaelidou said the migrants are in good health and were given food and footwear once they were taken to area police stations.

Cyprus' northern coast is at its closest around 40 miles (66 kilometers) from Turkey's southern coastline.

[AP]