At least five people died and 41 remain missing after the Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry caught fire off Indonesia’s Madura island, according to data released by the country’s search and rescue agency, Basarnas. The vessel was carrying 271 passengers and crew members when the disaster unfolded during a voyage from Surabaya in East Java to Makassar in South Sulawesi.
Rescue Operations and Passenger Evacuations
Search and rescue teams have rescued at least 225 people from the burning vessel, according to the latest figures from Basarnas. Local footage broadcast by news outlet iNews shows passengers wearing life jackets crowded onto lifeboats. Other video clips capture individuals jumping into the sea as thick smoke and flames pour from the ship, while bystanders throw lifebuoys to survivors before pulling them aboard rescue vessels.
Basarnas posted video documentation to its TikTok account stating that the Surabaya Search and Rescue office received initial alerts about the fire at 08:24 local time (02:24 GMT). Agency officials later confirmed that the ferry was almost entirely engulfed in flames, forcing stranded passengers to cling to the ship’s bridge and bow while awaiting rescue teams.
Did you know?
Investigation Into the Ferry Fire
Indonesian authorities report that the exact cause of the blaze remains unclear. According to Basarnas, the fire broke out between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM local time.
Search operations for the 41 missing individuals continue off the coast of Madura island, involving multiple regional rescue units and local maritime assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry fire?
Indonesian authorities state that the exact cause is currently unclear. Basarnas reported that the fire started between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM local time.
How many people were onboard the vessel?
According to the country’s search and rescue agency, the ferry was carrying 271 passengers and crew members.
How many survivors have been rescued?
At least 225 individuals have been rescued, while search operations continue for 41 missing people.
Stay informed on unfolding maritime incidents and emergency response updates by subscribing to our daily news briefing. Have insights on regional transport safety? Leave a comment below to join the discussion.
Related reading