Elderly fisherman from South Kalimantan found safe after six days missing

Banjarmasin — The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has reported that an elderly fisherman from Kotabaru Regency, South Kalimantan, named Ridwan (71), has been found safe in West Sulawesi after going missing for six days in the waters off Sebuku Island, Kotabaru.

Putu Sudayana, Head of Banjarmasin I SAR Office, stated on Monday in Banjarmasin that the victim was discovered in Majene Regency, West Sulawesi, after drifting in the Makassar Strait since being reported missing on 24 February 2026.

“The victim has been found safe. With this, we are closing our search and rescue operation and returning all personnel to their respective units,” said Putu, who serves as SAR Mission Coordinator (SMC).

He explained that the combined SAR team had previously swept an area of approximately 20 nautical miles using Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIB) and various supporting equipment.

The victim and his vessel were then towed towards Pamboang, Palipi Port in Majene Regency, West Sulawesi. The process of returning the victim to South Kalimantan is currently being coordinated by his family.

Putu commended the active role of fishermen who discovered the victim and the community’s support throughout the search process, enabling effective cross-regional coordination.

The SAR operation involved Kotabaru SAR Post, TNI AL Sekapung Navy Base, Kotabaru Police Marine Unit, as well as local fishermen and residents.