Northern Irish man dies and two fall sick after travelling to Turkey for dental treatment

Richard Molloy, 33, from Belfast, died during trip to Marmaris with two friends

Three friends travelled to Marmaris, in Turkey (Marmaris Tourism Union)

A Northern Irish man has died and two others are critically ill after travelling to Turkey for dental treatment.  

Richard Molloy, 33, from Belfast, died in a “tragic incident” over the weekend during a trip to the southern city of Marmaris.  

His friends Aaron Callaghan and Declan Carson are seriously ill in hospital but are said to be responding to treatment.  

The trio reportedly flew to the country for a teeth whitening procedure, however this has not been confirmed and it is not yet clear what caused the men to become unwell.  

The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust is helping Molloy’s family to bring his body home.  

Colin Bell, from the charity, set up in memory of his son who died abroad, said they hoped to repatriate Molloy by the end of the week, as long as no further Covid restrictions were introduced in the meantime.  

He said he understood Mr Callaghan and Mr Carson were responding to treatment and feeling better.  

North Belfast MP John Finucane said he had spoken to the families of the young men and that they were making arrangements to bring them home.  

"It's very difficult but we don't have much clarity at this stage as to what exactly has happened," he told the BBC.  

The Republic of Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs said it was "aware of the case and providing consular assistance".  

"The Department of Foreign Affairs has made contact with all three families and will be assisting them throughout the process,” a spokesperson said.  

Additional reporting by PA