In a heartbreaking sequence of events, the KM Barcelona 5 encountered flames while navigating through North Sulawesi, prompting rescue operations that involved multiple vessels and local authorities. The Indonesian Fleet Command's Vice Admiral Denih Hendrata confirmed the grim toll of the fire, which led to black smoke thickly enveloping the ship, as seen in footage released by the Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS).
Carrying approximately 280 passengers, footage highlighted harrowing scenes of individuals in life jackets struggling in the water, being rescued by nearby boats. The exact figures concerning injuries and the total number of rescued or missing individuals remain unknown, with BASARNAS currently undertaking extensive search and rescue operations with the assistance of at least two larger ships and smaller inflatable crafts.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, as Indonesia grapples with a history of maritime incidents. This tragedy comes shortly after another ferry-related disaster, where at least five people perished and 29 went missing after the ferry KMT Tunu Pratama Jaya sank en route to Bali.
The need for improved safety measures in Indonesia's bustling ferry industry is becoming increasingly urgent as the nation endures frequent maritime accidents.
Carrying approximately 280 passengers, footage highlighted harrowing scenes of individuals in life jackets struggling in the water, being rescued by nearby boats. The exact figures concerning injuries and the total number of rescued or missing individuals remain unknown, with BASARNAS currently undertaking extensive search and rescue operations with the assistance of at least two larger ships and smaller inflatable crafts.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, as Indonesia grapples with a history of maritime incidents. This tragedy comes shortly after another ferry-related disaster, where at least five people perished and 29 went missing after the ferry KMT Tunu Pratama Jaya sank en route to Bali.
The need for improved safety measures in Indonesia's bustling ferry industry is becoming increasingly urgent as the nation endures frequent maritime accidents.
