# KMP Batumandi ferry fire and sinking

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/kmp-batumandi-ferry-fire-and-sinking
> Updated: 2026-10-26T22:48:31.000Z. Sources: 35. Developments: 3.

On October 20, 2026, the KMP Batumandi ferry, operated by PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, caught fire near Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten, while traveling from Bakauheni. Although the fire was extinguished by the evening, the vessel lost stability due to the weight of the water used during firefighting efforts and sank in the port entrance channel on the night of October 21.

All 420 to 460 passengers and 40 crew members were successfully evacuated without fatalities, though eleven individuals required medical treatment. PT Jasa Raharja and PT Jasaraharja Putera are managing medical expenses and insurance claims for those affected.

Investigations are being conducted by the Banten Regional Police Water and Air Directorate, the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT), and the National Police Forensic Laboratory. Authorities have questioned 18 witnesses, including crew members and passengers, to determine if the fire resulted from technical failure or intentional acts. A full crime scene investigation has faced delays due to high temperatures remaining from the recent fire.

Following the sinking, PT ASDP has implemented emergency measures to secure the wreck site. This includes the deployment of navigation buoys approximately 93 meters from the vessel to warn other ships of the underwater hazard, as well as oil booms to prevent potential leaks from contaminating the marine ecosystem. PT ASDP Corporate Secretary Windy Andale stated that securing the location is the current priority while technical evaluations for the salvage process are underway.

To maintain regional connectivity on the Merak–Bakauheni route, ASDP has deployed the KMP Portlink III. Port authorities have confirmed that ferry operations at Merak remain normal despite the incident.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-26: Merak waters: Authorities secure KMP Batumandi wreck site

Authorities have deployed navigation buoys and oil booms near the sunken KMP Batumandi in Merak to ensure maritime safety and prevent environmental damage during technical salvage evaluations.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/merak-waters-authorities-secure-kmp-batumandi-wreck-site

### 2026-10-22: KMP Batumandi sinking and fire in Merak waters triggers investigation

Following the fire and sinking of the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port, Indonesian authorities are investigating the cause while coordinating insurance claims and passenger rights.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kmp-batumandi-ferry-fire-and-sinking-investigation-underway

### 2026-10-20: KMP Batumandi ferry sinks after fire near Merak Port

The KMP Batumandi ferry caught fire and subsequently sank near Merak Port, Indonesia. All 460 people on board were safely evacuated, though 11 required medical care. Investigations into the cause are ongoing.

32 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kmp-batumandi-ferry-catches-fire-near-merak-port

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Cite as: KMP Batumandi ferry fire and sinking. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/kmp-batumandi-ferry-fire-and-sinking