Tragedy at Sea: Indonesian Ferry Fire Kills Five, Over 280 Rescued

A devastating ferry fire off the coast of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, on Sunday has left at least five people dead, including a pregnant woman, and forced hundreds to abandon ship in panic. The vessel, identified as KM Barcelona 5, was en route from the Talaud Islands to Manado when it caught fire near Talisei Island around noon, according to reports from the Associated Press.

Dramatic footage shared on social media showed thick black smoke billowing from the upper decks as flames engulfed the ferry. Terrified passengers, many clad in orange life jackets, were seen leaping into the turbulent sea to escape the rapidly spreading fire.

Vice Admiral Denih Hendrata, Commander of the Indonesian Fleet Command, confirmed that 284 people — passengers and crew — had been rescued with the help of three navy vessels and local fishermen. However, the total number of individuals on board remains uncertain.

“We’re still focused on the evacuation,” said Hendrata, adding that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) released visuals showing plumes of smoke rising into the sky and survivors being hoisted onto rescue boats. According to Nuriadin Gumeleng, spokesperson for the North Sulawesi Search and Rescue Agency, rescued individuals were being transported to the nearby Ganga Island for medical attention and safety.

One survivor, Alwina Inang, the wife of a local police official, shared her terrifying experience with Indonesian outlet Detik. “We were eating when thick smoke suddenly entered the room. We immediately jumped into the sea,” she said. Inang reportedly floated in the sea for nearly an hour before being rescued.

The cause of the blaze remains unknown, but officials have promised a full investigation. Sunday’s incident has reignited concerns over maritime safety in Indonesia, a nation heavily reliant on ferries to connect its vast archipelago.