JAKARTA – A ferry carrying over 280 people caught fire off the coast of North Sulawesi in Indonesia on Sunday. Rescuers have recovered five bodies, including that of a pregnant woman.
The incident involved the KM Barcelona 5, which was en route from Talaud, an island district in the province, to Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province. Vice Admiral Denih Hendrata, Commander of the Indonesian Fleet Command, stated that the passenger boat caught fire near Talis.
Three naval vessels have been deployed to the area to assist in the rescue efforts. So far, 284 passengers and crew members have been rescued. Local fishermen are also participating in the rescue operation due to the rough sea conditions.
The fire reportedly broke out around 12.00 pm (local time) causing panic among passengers as thick, black smoke billowed while flames rapidly spread across the ferry’s upper decks. Harrowing videos posted on social media showed dozens of terrified passengers jumping overboard into choppy waters, many wearing bright orange life jackets. The exact number of passengers and crew on board the boat is not yet available.
