Fisherman found dead after boat capsized in heavy seas

Residents of Sungai Paret Village in Penajam Paser Utara Regency, East Kalimantan, were shocked by the discovery of a fisherman’s body floating along the coastline on Sunday (24 May). The finding was immediately reported to the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of PPU for further handling.

BPBD PPU Acting Head Nurlaila confirmed the deceased was a drowning victim reported missing the same day. The victim, identified as Rizky Andrianto, 23, from RT 06, Nipah-Nipah Village, Penajam Subdistrict.

“The drowning incident occurred around 15:00 WITA on Sunday afternoon, and we received the report from locals at 16:35 WITA,” Nurlaila stated at the scene.

According to BPBD’s information, the tragedy began when the victim set out fishing at around 07:00 WITA with his brother, Wahyu Setiawan, 26, and uncle, Wahyuni, 40. They used a small boat to head to the Bagang area and Gusung Island.

By 15:00 WITA, the sea conditions deteriorated suddenly. Strong winds and large waves capsized their vessel.

“When the boat capsized, the uncle and brother attempted to rescue each other while shouting for help from passing vessels, despite the distance,” Nurlaila explained.

Two companions were rescued by a fishing boat captained by Sabriansyah and Mahyudin. They were evacuated to the Sungai Paret Water Gate Bridge. However, Rizky Andrianto was swept away by strong currents and later found deceased.

After receiving the report, BPBD PPU swiftly conducted identification and evacuation. The victim’s body was taken directly to the family home for burial.

In response, Nurlaila urged the public, especially fishermen and anglers, to prioritise safety when operating at sea.

“We advise the public to prepare personal safety equipment such as life jackets or life vests. Additionally, remain vigilant about extreme weather conditions that often cause high waves and storms, which are particularly dangerous for small vessels,” she added.

Previously, the victim typically engaged in tapping rubber trees in his garden from around 07:00 WITA.

BPBD PPU has warned residents near the IKN and Sepaku areas to be cautious of estuarine crocodile attacks, with two fatalities reported in early 2026.