Boat With 20 Fishermen Struck By Lightning In Situbondo Waters, 4 People Died

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SITUBONDO - A boat carrying as many as 20 fishermen was struck by lightning while catching fish in the waters of Pandean Hamlet, Wonorejo Village, Banyuputih, Situbondo, East Java.

As a result of the tragic event, 4 people died, 1 person disappeared into the sea, 15 others managed to survive.

The victims who died were Wagiso (55), Danil (22), Misyono (40), M Ilyas (38). Meanwhile, the missing victim is Sabar Utomo (25). All of the victims were residents of Wonorejo Village, Situbondo.

Banyuputih Police Chief, AKP Heru Purwanto, confirmed the news that dozens of fishermen were struck by lightning.

According to the witness' testimony, at that time the 20 fishermen went to sea at 12.30 WIB, using a boat belonging to Wagiso. At that time the weather was not friendly and in a state of heavy rain. However, the fishermen continued their journey to the middle of the sea.

"Just about 10 km away, suddenly the ship was struck by lightning. It made the whole ship panic and everyone bowed", said AKP Heru, Friday, December 31.

After the conditions had calmed down some of the fishermen were back on their feet. However, 4 people just remained silent, 1 other person even fell into the sea and his whereabouts were unknown.

"The fishermen who are still alive also took the initiative to turn the boat around. The intention to find fish was also discouraged", he said.

Arriving on the mainland, the survivors also asked the community for help. The unconscious victims were then taken to the nearest health center.

"However, upon arrival at the health center the lives of the four victims were not saved and the victim was declared dead. Currently, there is still 1 victim who fell into the sea and a search is still being carried out by residents, BPBD (Regional Disaster Management Agency), and the SAR (search and rescue) team", said AKP Heru.