Indonesia has launched a major search operation after a passenger ship capsized in the Java Sea, leaving 129 people missing.
More than 600 rescuers are searching the area. Authorities have rescued 108 people, while six others have died.
The vessel, Virgo Transport 8, was carrying 243 people when it lost contact during severe weather early Sunday.
It was travelling from Surabaya in East Java to Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan.
Indonesia Passenger Ship Capsizes During Bad Weather
The ship encountered rough conditions while crossing the Java Sea.
Officials said strong waves hit the vessel from the starboard side. As a result, the ship began to tilt heavily before eventually capsizing.
A passing helicopter later spotted the overturned vessel.
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said authorities are still investigating what caused the accident.
More Than 600 Rescuers Join Search
Rescue teams have expanded the operation as families wait for news of their relatives.
Banjarmasin rescue agency chief I Putu Sudayana said 622 personnel and around 12 ships were deployed on Monday.
Other reports said the wider operation also involved additional vessels, aircraft and specialist underwater teams.
However, rough seas continue to make the search difficult.
High waves and strong winds have limited the ability of rescuers to conduct underwater operations safely.
Six People Confirmed Dead
Authorities have confirmed six deaths so far.
At the same time, rescuers have brought 108 survivors to safety.
The figures could change as the search continues because 129 people remain unaccounted for.
Rescue teams are therefore focusing on areas around the capsized vessel while continuing to search nearby waters.
Ship Was Travelling From Surabaya to Banjarmasin
The Virgo Transport 8 departed from Surabaya on Saturday.
It was heading toward Banjarmasin, a major port city in South Kalimantan, when it encountered severe weather.
The vessel carried passengers and crew members, along with vehicles. Officials have said the ship was not operating beyond its stated capacity.
Meanwhile, relatives of those on board have gathered at ports and emergency centres while waiting for updates.
Indonesia Relies Heavily on Sea Travel
The accident highlights the importance of ferry services in Indonesia.
The country consists of thousands of islands, so ferries remain an affordable and practical way for people and goods to travel between communities.
However, Indonesia has also experienced repeated ferry accidents.
Recent incidents have included ferry fires and other maritime disasters, raising renewed concerns about safety standards and emergency preparedness.
Search Operation Continues
For now, rescuers are racing against time to find the remaining passengers and crew.
The difficult weather remains the biggest challenge.
Nevertheless, authorities continue to deploy ships, aircraft and specialist teams in the search area.
The cause of the Indonesia passenger ship capsizes incident remains under investigation.
For families waiting for news, the priority remains clear: rescuers must locate the 129 missing people and determine whether more survivors can be brought home safely.
