KMP Virgo Accident Update: 107 Safe, 6 Dead, and 136 Still Missing
Banjarmasin, CNBC Indonesia - The Indonesian Minister of Transportation, Dudy Purwagende, has provided the latest update on the handling of the KMP Virgo Transport 8 accident, which occurred in the Java Sea near Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. The vessel was carrying a total of 243 passengers at the time of the incident.
“On behalf of the government, I express my deepest condolences for the maritime accident involving KMP Virgo Transport 8,” said Dudy during a press conference on Sunday (13/09/2026).
As of this afternoon, the joint SAR team led by Basarnas has successfully evacuated 107 passengers in safe condition, while 6 fatalities have been confirmed. Consequently, approximately 136 passengers remain in the process of being searched for.
Dudy revealed that his office received reports of the accident at 03:30, and since then, immediate coordination has been established with Basarnas and all relevant agencies to conduct search, rescue, and evacuation processes. He noted that search operations are ongoing, with all available resources being deployed.
The Minister of Transportation expressed his appreciation to Basarnas as the coordinator of the SAR operation, as well as the TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces), Polri (National Police), the South Kalimantan Provincial Government, Pelindo, healthcare services, and the ship operator, all of whom have been recognised for their rapid and tireless work in this humanitarian operation.
The Ministry of Transportation is also operating an integrated command post at the Trisakti Passenger Port Terminal, Pelindo Banjarmasin, which serves as the coordination centre for victim handling, public services, data collection, and the dissemination of official information to the public.
Regarding the cause of the accident, Dudy ensured that the government will conduct a thorough investigation through the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) within its authority. He requested that all parties allow the KNKT to work professionally, independently, and based on data and facts, so that the investigation results can serve as a basis for improving maritime safety in the future.
Dudy reiterated his profound condolences to the families of all victims and emphasised that the government will continue to oversee the handling of this disaster alongside all stakeholders until all stages of the process are completed.