Fatal Ferry Disaster Off Bali: Dozens Missing as Search Continues
Fatal Ferry Disaster Off Bali: Dozens Missing as Search Continues
A tragic ferry sinking off Indonesia’s tourist island of Bali has resulted in at least five confirmed deaths and dozens of passengers still missing. Rescue operations are intensely underway following the incident, which occurred late Wednesday as the vessel traveled from Banyuwangi on Java island to Bali.
The ferry, carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew members, reportedly experienced engine trouble shortly before it capsized. While authorities are investigating, local media also cited an official attributing the cause to “bad weather.” Thirty-one survivors have been rescued so far, with search efforts continuing to locate those still missing.
Eyewitness accounts from survivors describe a rapid capsizing. Imron, a Banyuwangi resident, recounted the ferry tilting sharply three times before sea water flooded the cabin, forcing him to swim to safety. Another survivor, Bejo Santoso, managed to jump off just as the ship began rolling.
President Prabowo Subianto, currently on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, has ordered an immediate emergency response to the disaster. The route between Java and Bali is one of Indonesia’s busiest, frequently used by locals. Marine accidents are unfortunately common in the sprawling Indonesian archipelago, often attributed to inconsistent safety regulation enforcement.
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