BULUNGAN - The wooden boat KM Usaha 2 sank after being hit by high waves in the waters of the Tapa River, Bunyu District, Bulungan Regency, North Kalimantan (Kaltara) on Sunday, July 19.
The Head of the Bulungan Police, Kombes Rofikoh Yunianto, through the Head of Public Relations Aipda Hadi, said that all the crew members managed to save themselves and were evacuated safely by the joint team.
"The incident began when the KM Usaha 2 sailed from Dermaga 30 Ton Bunyu to the fishpond in the Marungau area, Tanah Merah, Tana Tidung Regency, carrying the cargo of used wood from house demolition," said Aipda Hadi, Monday, July 20.
"The ship was captained by Abdul Karim with two crew members. In the middle of the journey, the weather changed drastically, heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and high waves until the water entered the hull," he continued.
The captain then tried to save the ship by steering it towards the Tapa River coast. However, the strong waves made the ship repeatedly hit the trees on the beach until the hull of the ship broke and finally sank.
"The ship's steward and two crew members immediately saved themselves by climbing trees around the location. One of the crew members then sent a video of their condition to the Bunyu residents to ask for help," he said.
The incident was known after residents reported it to the Bunyu Island Police at around 10.30 Wita. After that, a joint SAR team consisting of Danposal Bunyu, four Bunyu Posal personnel, two Bunyu Police personnel, and three local fishermen moved to the location using two speed boats.
At around 12.05 Wita, the team arrived at the location and immediately evacuated Abdul Karim along with two crew members from the tree where they were sheltering.
"The three victims were successfully evacuated in a safe condition. After being taken to Posal Bunyu and questioned, the condition of the captain and the two ABK was confirmed to be healthy and not seriously injured," explained Hadi.
The search and rescue operation ended at around 13.30 Wita. All the victims then returned to their respective homes.
"We appeal to the public, especially fishermen, not to force sailing when the weather worsens. Safety must be the top priority. If there is an emergency at sea, immediately report to the relevant authorities so that the handling can be done quickly," he said.
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