Particle.news

Download on the App Store

18 Shipwrecked Passengers Rescued Off Mentawai After 24-Hour Search

Guided by a compass, passengers clung to makeshift flotation to survive an hours-long drift before being evacuated for medical care.

Image
Einige der Geretteten klammerten sich für mehrere Stunden an Schwimmwesten fest. (Symbolbild)
Image

Overview

  • The 12-meter boat capsized on Monday morning off West Sumatra due to high waves.
  • The group of 18 included mostly local government officials and three children bound for Tuapejat on official business.
  • Two boatmen used a compass and passengers clung to life jackets and improvised flotation as they swam for up to six hours to reach the nearest island.
  • Search teams from BASARNAS and local agencies located some survivors on Monday and completed the recovery of all 18 by Tuesday afternoon after more than 24 hours at sea.
  • Several survivors suffered injuries and are receiving medical care while authorities initiate a review of maritime safety protocols across the archipelago.