Joint team records KM Batumandi passengers after fire

Cilegon (ANTARA) – A joint team from PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, the police and other stakeholders is recording and validating the passenger manifest of those safely evacuated after a fire on the KM Batumandi as it was docking at Pier VI of Merak Port, Cilegon, West Java, on Tuesday.

ASDP service staff in mint-green uniforms, accompanied by police officers and other personnel, recorded the details of passengers arriving at the port.

“The manifest is being checked again to ensure that all passengers aboard the KM Batumandi are accurately accounted for, safe and properly assisted following their evacuation from the sea,” Banten Police Public Relations Chief Commissioner Maruli Ahiles Hutapea said in a statement in Cilegon on Tuesday.

On-site staff also provided initial psychological support and basic medical care, and arranged logistical assistance for passengers affected by the incident.

“This step reflects the ferry operator’s commitment to service and responsibility to ensure the safety of all passengers, as well as to match the official manifest against the actual number of people successfully evacuated,” he said.

The fire broke out aboard the KM Batumandi near Merak Besar Island on Tuesday while the vessel was manoeuvring to dock at Pier VI of Merak Port, Cilegon, at around 14:52 WIB.

ASDP Corporate Secretary Windy Andale said the vessel had departed Bakauheni Port at around 14:52 WIB. At about 16:15 WIB, shore-based staff spotted sparks at the rear of the vessel, on the upper deck designated for small vehicles.

The cause of the fire has not yet been established. ASDP said it would support the authorities’ investigation and provide regular updates based on information verified in the field.