Basarnas mandates wreckage removal for KM Virgo Transport 8

Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has stated that the owners of the KM Virgo Transport 8 are legally required to remove the vessel's wreckage. The ship capsized in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea on September 13, 2026, after encountering bad weather while traveling from Surabaya to Banjarmasin with 243 people on board.

Basarnas Head Mohammad Syafii explained that under the Shipping Law, owners have up to 180 days to clear wreckage that obstructs navigation. However, the government is moving to involve the owners and technical experts immediately to facilitate the ongoing search and evacuation of victims. The agency is coordinating with the Ministry of Transportation to manage the removal process to support efforts in locating those believed to be inside the capsized vessel.