Four Boats Burned At Batam Customs And Excise Pier, One Crew Goes Into The Sea

The ship leaning against the Customs wharf caught fire. (special / Between)

JAKARTA - Four ships berthed at the Customs and Excise dock in Tanjunguncang, a port in Batam City, Riau Islands, caught fire, Tuesday, February 23.

Among the burning ships, there was evidence of the catch of the local customs officials, namely fast boats and barges. Among the ship's evidence, the law has been established.

Deputy Head of Batuaji Police, AKP Indra said that his party received a report of a fire from local security officers, at around 8.00 WIB.

His party is still investigating the cause of the fire. Based on witness testimony, he said, the fire came from cigarette butts.

"It is still suspected from there. But investigations are needed for a criminal laboratory," Indra said as quoted by Antara, Tuesday, February 23.

According to him, when it caught fire, the ship was without a cargo. He said that until now, there were no fatalities in the accident. One crew member managed to save himself by throwing himself into the sea when the fire broke out.

"It's safe," he said.

Four units of fire engines were deployed to tame the flames that grew larger as the wind blew. The fire was extinguished around 10.30 WIB, or approximately two hours later.

Until now, there has been no confirmation from the customs authorities regarding the accident.