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Virgo Transport 8 ferry capsizing in Java Sea

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2026-09-15 05:05 UTC → 2026-09-15 07:25 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Virgo Transport 8 ferry capsized in the Java Sea during the early hours of Sunday, September 13, while traveling from Surabaya to Banjarmasin. The vessel encountered severe weather and high waves, which hindered rescue efforts. The ship was carrying 243 people, including 213 passengers and 30 crew members. As of September 15, authorities have located 114 individuals, consisting of 108 survivors and six confirmed deceased. However, 129 people remain missing. Search and rescue operations led by the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), involving the Indonesian Navy, helicopters, and various vessels, continue. ~~While surface searches remain active, underwater operations have faced delays due~~ Basarnas has expanded the search area to ~~rough seas, with wave heights recorded between 1.75 and 2.5 meters.~~ 4,600 nautical miles, divided into six sectors. The Indonesian Navy plans to deploy the KRI Canopus, which is equipped with an underwater drone, a multibeam echo-sounder, and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), to assist in locating survivors once conditions permit. Specialist divers are also being prepared for underwater operations. Local rescue chief I Putu Sudayana noted that the high waves make the operation ‘extremely risky even for 40-meter Basarnas vessels’. The shipwreck has been located at a depth of approximately 30 meters, though the hull has reportedly shifted about 1.6 nautical miles westward due to strong currents. While Basarnas has considered towing the vessel to shallower waters, the Indonesian Navy has suggested leaving it stationary if it remains stable on the seabed. In South Kalimantan, local government has mobilized medical facilities to treat survivors. Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi noted that preliminary information suggests the ferry was not overloaded. The National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) is conducting an investigation, and Jasa Raharja has begun providing cashless compensation to the families of identified victims.

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