16 killed in ship accident

PEKANBARU, Riau: At least 16 Indonesians have drowned after their ship, en route to Malaysia, sank in the Rokan River near Sungai Manasib village in Rimbo Malintang district, Bengkalis regency.

The head of Bangko Harbor, M. Yusuf, said yesterday that 23 other passengers were still reportedly missing after Saturday's mishap.

"We are still searching for the other missing people," Yusuf said.

The ship's 63 male and nine female passengers were traveling to Malaysia to look for employment, Yusuf was quoted as saying by Antara.

Strong currents are believed to have been a major factor in the sinking.

Security officers and local residents found the 16 bodies at separate places along the river Saturday.

Only five of the victims have been identified. (jun)