KLM Nurul Salsa Accident in Selayar: 46 Passengers Aboard, Six Evacuated

A passenger vessel, KLM Nurul Salsa, carrying approximately 46 people has been involved in an accident while sailing in the waters off the Selayar Islands Regency, South Sulawesi, after suffering a leak in the hull. Six passengers have been successfully evacuated by a joint search and rescue (SAR) team.

“Yes, there are 46 people on the vessel, while six have been successfully evacuated,” said the Selayar Islands Police Public Relations Subdivision Head, Aipda Suardi Andre, in a statement on Wednesday (15/7).

The vessel, which was carrying dozens of passengers including children, experienced engine failure and a minor leak, forcing the pump to be operated continuously to expel water entering the hull on Wednesday (15/7).

“Since midday, we and Basarnas have been following up on the report of the maritime accident. However, the waves are very high, so we are waiting for a larger vessel that is ready for use,” said the Head of the Selayar Islands Police Water and Air Unit, Iptu Amat Soedachlan.

He added that the joint SAR team is currently at Appatanah Port, waiting for a vessel from Pasimasunggu to proceed to the scene. “The weather conditions, influenced by the east monsoon wind, are causing high waves in the waters, so the safety of rescue personnel is the main consideration before deployment,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Selayar Police Chief AKBP Didid Imawan stated that all passengers and crew are the top priority in the rescue operation being conducted by the joint SAR team. “Public safety is the main priority. We hope the weather conditions will improve soon so the team can move to the location and all passengers of KLM Nurul Salsa can be evacuated safely,” said Didid.