Spanish family missing as boat sinks near Indon island
Indonesian rescuers are searching for a family of four Spanish tourists after a tour boat carrying 11 people sank overnight near a popular destination within Komodo National Park, authorities said.
Fathur Rahman, head of the Maumere Search and Rescue Office, said the boat was carrying six Spanish tourists, four crew members and a local guide when it sank after experiencing engine failure on Friday evening during its journey from Komodo Island to Padar Island.
Rahman said three people were rescued by a passing ship and four people were picked up by the search and rescue team.
“The missing passengers are a family of four Spanish nationals: husband, wife and two children. We are continuing the search,” Rahman said in a statement on Saturday. he said. “We hope that today’s operation will yield positive results.”
Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches and the endangered Komodo dragon. The park attracts thousands of visitors for diving, trekking and wildlife tours.
Rahman said survivors were being treated at the port office in the city of Labuan Bajo, where strong waves up to 2.5 meters high and darkness challenged emergency response teams throughout the night.
As conditions improved on Saturday morning, rescuers intensified the search, which included multiple rescue units on rigid inflatable boats and a rescue ship with the help of local fishermen and residents.
Videos released by the National Search and Rescue Agency show the operation took place in rough seas.
Indonesia is an archipelago with more than 17,000 islands, and ferries and boats are a common form of transportation. Accidents occur frequently due to lax safety standards and overcrowding problems.
