Horror at Sea: Passenger Livestreams Ferry Fire in Indonesia, at Least 5 Dead
A passenger ferry, KM Barcelona V, caught fire off the coast of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, on Sunday, July 20, 2025, resulting in at least five fatalities, including a pregnant woman. The incident occurred around 12:00 PM local time near Talise Island. While over 280 passengers and crew members have been rescued, the disaster has sparked renewed concerns about maritime safety standards in the region.
Passenger’s Desperate Plea: Livestream from the Sea
In a harrowing display of desperation, passenger Abdul Rahmad Agu livestreamed the unfolding tragedy on Facebook. The video showed him holding a baby in the open sea, having jumped from the burning vessel to escape the flames. "We are burning at sea... we need help fast," he pleaded in the broadcast, capturing the sheer terror and urgency of the situation.
Swift Rescue Operation Saves Hundreds
As the fire engulfed the KM Barcelona V, many passengers were forced to jump into the water, relying on life jackets for survival. A large-scale rescue operation was quickly mobilized, involving multiple agencies and local fishermen. The Indonesian Navy deployed three ships to the scene, while the National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) and the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) also joined the efforts. Rescued passengers were transported to Ganga Island for immediate assistance.
The Incident: Timeline of Events
The KM Barcelona V ferry was en route from the Talaud Islands to Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, when the fire broke out. The vessel was approaching Talise Island at approximately 12:00 PM local time on July 20, 2025. According to survivor Alwina Inang, panic erupted quickly after someone shouted about a fire at the rear of the ship.
Authorities Respond: Search and Investigation Underway
Vice Adm. Denih Hendrata, Commander of the Indonesian Fleet Command, confirmed the evacuation of 284 passengers and crew members. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the fire. George Leo Mercy Randang, head of the Manado Search and Rescue Office, has urged families to remain calm as the search and rescue operations continue.
Indonesia's Troubled Maritime Safety Record
Indonesia, an archipelago comprised of over 17,000 islands, heavily depends on ferries for transportation between islands. Unfortunately, maritime disasters are frequent occurrences, often attributed to inadequate safety enforcement. This latest incident follows a string of recent maritime accidents in the region. Earlier this month, a ferry sinking near Bali resulted in at least 19 deaths and 16 missing persons. On July 14, a speedboat capsized near the Mentawai Islands, further highlighting the dangers of sea travel in Indonesia.
Conflicting Initial Reports: Casualties and Missing Passengers
Initial reports following the fire were conflicting, particularly regarding the number of missing passengers. While some sources initially indicated approximately 130 people were unaccounted for, official figures have since focused on the numbers of rescued and deceased individuals. The confirmed death toll stands at at least five, including a pregnant woman, according to multiple news agencies, including the Associated Press, DW, NDTV, and the Hindustan Times.
Eyewitness Account: Survivor Describes the Panic
Alwina Inang, a survivor of the KM Barcelona V fire, provided a firsthand account of the chaos that unfolded. She stated that the fire erupted suddenly around 12:00 WITA, triggering immediate panic among the passengers. The rapid spread of the fire forced many to make the difficult decision to jump into the sea to escape the flames.
Investigation into the Cause: Potential Factors
The precise cause of the KM Barcelona V fire remains under investigation. Authorities are exploring various potential factors, including electrical faults, fuel leaks, and engine malfunctions. The investigation aims to determine the root cause of the incident and identify any negligence or safety violations that may have contributed to the disaster.
