Search Efforts Continue for Victims of KM Virgo Transport 8 Sinking

On September 24, 2026, the Indonesian Joint Search and Rescue (SAR) team successfully evacuated 14 victims from the wreck of the KM Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Java Sea. This brings the total number of recovered victims to 150, including 108 survivors and 42 confirmed dead, while 93 passengers are still missing, according to the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas).

The joint SAR operation, which includes divers from Basarnas Special Group (BSG), the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), and various volunteer organizations, has been ongoing for over a week. The head of Basarnas, M. Syafii, emphasized that the search efforts will continue, particularly diving operations to locate victims believed to be trapped inside the sunken vessel.

“Our focus is on finding the victims. We will continue to make every effort, but the safety of the divers remains the priority.”M. Syafii, Head of Basarnas

During the latest dives, which began at 09:55 WITA (Central Indonesia Time), divers successfully located seven victims in the first attempt, followed by one more in the second dive and six additional victims in the third dive later that day. The bodies were then transported via helicopter to Banjarmasin for identification and further handling.

Conditions in the Java Sea have been challenging, with high waves affecting the effectiveness of the search operations. However, on the day of the latest recovery, the underwater conditions were reported to be more favorable, aiding the divers' efforts. Yudhi Bramantyo Nur Sasongko, Director of Operations at Basarnas, noted that the natural conditions were very helpful that day, with clear visibility and relatively low currents, indicating that environmental factors played a crucial role in the operation's success.

“We were very assisted today by the natural conditions. The visibility was clear, and the currents were relatively low.”Yudhi Bramantyo Nur Sasongko, Director of Operations at Basarnas

The KM Virgo Transport 8 was carrying 243 passengers when it capsized after being hit by large waves. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) expected to provide insights into the causes of the accident. Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi stated that the ship was not overloaded at the time of the incident, and further investigations will clarify the circumstances surrounding the sinking.

As the search continues, the SAR teams remain focused on ensuring the safety of their personnel while trying to recover as many victims as possible. M. Syafii reiterated the importance of safety during these operations, stating that their focus is on finding the victims and that they will continue to make every effort, but the safety of the divers remains the priority. The ongoing operation reflects a collective commitment to support the affected families and communities, highlighting Indonesia's traditional values of gotong royong (communal cooperation) in times of crisis.