Five survivors found clinging to fish trap after Indonesian boat sinks with dozens missing

Rescuers in Indonesia have located five more survivors from the sunken passenger boat KM Nurul Salsa, bringing the total number of rescued individuals to 49. Among the latest survivors is a seven-year-old girl, found clinging to a fish trap at sea. The boat, which was carrying 78 passengers and crew, sank on Wednesday off the coast of South Sulawesi due to engine failure.

Despite the discovery of more survivors, the search continues for the 20 people still reported missing. The operation faces significant challenges due to adverse weather conditions, with waves reaching up to 2.5 meters and strong winds hampering rescue efforts. The Makassar Search and Rescue Office is coordinating the ongoing search.

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They were taken to the port in Benteng town for health checkups and information gathering.

Local fishermen reportedly discovered the five survivors clinging to a fish trap before they were transferred to a search-and-rescue vessel. They have since been taken to Benteng town for medical checks and to provide information. The Indonesian National Armed Forces, police, and private citizens are all involved in the extensive search operation.

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The challenge is the weather, with waves 2 meters to 2.5 meters high at the search site. The winds are also strong. That’s the main challenge.