Passenger ship sinks in the Java Sea: 119 rescued, 6 dead, 130 passengers still missing
The sea has always been and remains an element that does not forgive mistakes. Even in the age of high technology and satellite navigation, nature reminds us of its power, and human life proves fragile in the face of raging elements. This tragedy is another reminder of how important it is to observe safety at sea and cherish every moment.
According to Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency, the passenger ship Virgo Transport 8 lost contact with shore at about 02:00 local time on Sunday after encountering adverse weather conditions. There were about 240 people on board. According to the latest data, 119 people were rescued and 6 died. 130 passengers are still missing. The vessel left Surabaya in East Java province on Saturday and was heading to Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan province. The cause of the accident remains unclear.
Indonesian search and rescue services dispatched personnel, vessels and a helicopter to the waters near the vessel's last known location to conduct search and rescue operations. Indonesia, an archipelagic state of about 17,000 islands, relies heavily on ferries and other maritime transport to connect its regions and facilitate travel. Maritime accidents occur periodically due to weather and sea conditions, as well as vessel safety issues.
As reported by CCTV+, the Chinese Consulate General in Surabaya confirmed that there were no Chinese citizens on board, citing information confirmed by the relevant authorities of the city of Surabaya. Search and rescue operations continue.
