Fisherman missing in Ambon waters after being swept away by currents

Search operations are underway for Verkolep Maspaitella, a 25-year-old fisherman from Rutong, who went missing after being swept away by currents in the Waru waters of Hutumuri, Ambon. The incident occurred on Monday, August 17, 2026, at approximately 7:30 PM WIT while Maspaitella was fishing with two brothers.

While Maspaitella remains missing, his brothers, Yopi Maspaitella (29) and Simon Maspaitella (25), were rescued by locals and are receiving medical treatment at the Hutumuri Inpatient Hospital. A joint search team comprising SAR, Basarnas, Polairud, and local residents has conducted diving operations and continues to search the area. Authorities have advised residents to prioritize safety and avoid dangerous sea conditions during the search efforts.