Diving Operations to Search for KM Virgo Victims Halted, Basarnas Explains Reasoning

The search for victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 vessel has transitioned from underwater diving operations to a focus on surface water searches.

According to the Head of Basarnas Indonesia, M. Syafii, the condition of the victims’ remains has begun to change since entering the third day of the search. He noted that the ‘golden time’ for conducting such searches typically spans from the first to the third day.

He explained that during previous days, the remains being evacuated could still be brought to the surface relatively intact. However, he stated that continuing underwater operations is no longer effective as the remains may decompose upon being extracted from the ship.

Syafii further elaborated that in the earlier stages of the search, it was still possible for the bodies to be released and float to the surface. However, the current condition of the deceased no longer allows for them to float upwards.

Despite this, he emphasised that the search for victims will continue until everyone is found and returned to their families with dignity.