Indonesia Deploys Patrol Boats to Evacuate Ferry After Fire at Sea

Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation has deployed patrol boats to manage the fire incident aboard the KM Mutiara Sentosa II ferry in the waters north of Sumenep, Java Sea. The primary focus of the operation is the swift and safe evacuation of all passengers and crew, achieved through intensive coordination with the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas).

"Our main focus right now is ensuring the evacuation process for all passengers and crew can proceed quickly, safely, and optimally," stated Director General of Sea Transportation, Muhammad Masyhud, on Sunday. The fire is estimated to have started between 6:00 and 7:00 AM Western Indonesian Time, with the Ministry receiving the report around 8:30 AM and immediately initiating coordination with Basarnas and other relevant agencies.

The initial response involved the Directorate General of Sea Transportation broadcasting the accident information via the Kalianget Coastal Radio Operation Station. Simultaneously, the Sea and Coast Guard (KPLP) deployed the KN Grantin P.211, and the Navigation District prepared the KN Masalembo to support the rescue operation.

However, the evacuation faced challenges. Masyhud explained that the Meratus Project 3, one of the first vessels to reach the ferry, could not directly assist due to carrying hazardous materials. Other commercial vessels in the vicinity then continued the rescue efforts. As of Sunday evening, Basarnas reported that 232 individuals had been evacuated: 227 survivors and five deceased. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation by the authorities, who are committed to monitoring the situation and providing further updates.

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Our main focus right now is ensuring the evacuation process for all passengers and crew can proceed quickly, safely, and optimally.