North Sulawesi (Indonesia), July 20: In a tragic incident, a large passenger ship named KM Barcelona VA caught fire near Talise Island in North Sulawesi Province in Indonesia on Sunday afternoon. Videos of the terrifying incident have gone viral on social media, showing the passengers jumping into the sea to escape the massive flames erupting out of the burning vessel. The passengers are seen panicked and jumping into the sea wearing life jackets to save themselves from fire.
There are reports that the ship was carrying 280 passengers and was on its way to Manado Port when the fire broke out. In the videos shared on social media, thick black smoke can be seen emanating from the vessel and people can be heard shouting and panicking. Some videos, taken by passengers themselves, show others hurriedly putting on life jackets while some trying to call for help on their mobile phones.
According to Jerry Harmonsina, the Secretary of the North Sulawesi Regional Disaster Management Agency, the fire started in the afternoon and spread quickly. Speaking to local news outlet Detik, he confirmed that the ship was near Talise Island when the fire occurred.
There are no reports of casualties or injuries into the incident yet. However, rescue operations are underway. Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency, the Navy, the Coast Guard and even local fishermen are all helping to evacuate the passengers safely.
Social media platforms are flooded with videos showing the chaotic scenes on the vessels. In one widely shared clip, people can be seen floating in the sea surrounded by smoke. In another, passengers are seen panicking and trying to wear life vests and escape the danger.
The cause of the fire is not known yet, however, an investigation will be initiated and the cause of fire will be revealed soon. The authorities are expected to initiate the investigation once the rescue operation is complete and all the passengers are rescued safely.
