What Happened After a Ship Sank in Indonesia?
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Synopsis
Tragedy struck in the Bali Strait as a passenger ship sank, leading to a significant loss of life. With 38 individuals still unaccounted for, the Indonesian government has mobilized a rescue operation. President Prabowo Subianto's direct intervention from Saudi Arabia underscores the urgency of the situation as rescue teams face challenging conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Four confirmed dead in the ship sinking.
- Thirty-eight individuals are still missing.
- Rescue operations are actively ongoing.
- President Prabowo Subianto has prioritized victim recovery.
- Challenging weather conditions are complicating rescue efforts.
Jakarta, July 3 (NationPress) Four individuals have tragically been confirmed dead, while 38 remain unaccounted for, and 23 others have survived following the sinking of a passenger vessel in the Bali Strait of Indonesia early Thursday, reported Tholeb Vatelehan, a senior official from the East Java Search and Rescue Office.
The wooden ship, KM Tunu Pratama Jaya, was en route from Ketapang seaport in Banyuwangi Regency, East Java, to Gilimanuk seaport in Jembrana Regency on Bali Island when it capsized, according to the official.
“Out of the passengers, 23 survived, 4 have died, and 38 others are still missing,” Vatelehan informed Xinhua news agency over the phone.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) to urgently assist the passengers and crew of the inter-island ferry.
Teddy Indra Wijaya, cabinet secretary, mentioned that the President issued this directive directly from Saudi Arabia, where he is currently on an official visit and performing Umrah.
“From the Holy Land, he promptly directed Basarnas and relevant agencies to initiate an emergency response to rescue the passengers and crew as swiftly as possible,” Teddy stated on Thursday.
The President stressed that the rescue of victims must be the highest priority during this emergency operation, Teddy added.
Search and rescue operations are now underway from both Bali Island and East Java, as the incident occurred near the maritime boundary between the two regions.
I Nyoman Sidakarya, head of the Bali Search and Rescue Office, confirmed the collaborative efforts.
The Banyuwangi Search and Rescue Office has dispatched over 20 personnel, along with a rigid inflatable boat and an additional vessel to aid in the operation, Vatelehan noted.
“Rescue efforts are currently hindered by strong winds, large waves, and powerful currents,” he added.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this incident with empathy and accuracy. The loss of life is deeply tragic, and the ongoing rescue operations highlight the resilience of the Indonesian authorities in times of crisis. The focus must remain on ensuring the safety of the missing individuals and supporting their families during this challenging time.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the ship to sink?
The exact cause of the sinking is still under investigation, but challenging maritime conditions, including strong winds and large waves, have been reported.
How many people were on board?
The passenger ship had a total of 65 people on board, out of which 23 survived, four are confirmed dead, and 38 remain missing.
What measures are being taken for the rescue?
Indonesian authorities are conducting search and rescue operations from both Bali Island and East Java, deploying personnel and vessels to locate the missing individuals.
Who is leading the rescue operations?
The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) is leading the efforts, under the direct instruction of President Prabowo Subianto.
Where did the ship sink?
The incident occurred in the Bali Strait, near the maritime boundary between Bali Island and East Java.
