Minister of Transportation Supports Search for Five Journalists Missing During Anak Krakatau Coverage

Jakarta, VIVA – Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi has expressed his concern over the loss of contact with five journalists while they were covering activities at Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK). He has pledged full support for the search efforts conducted by joint teams and relevant authorities.

The Minister also offered prayers for the swift discovery of the five journalists by the joint SAR team, hoping that the search process proceeds smoothly with the support of all involved parties.

“We are very concerned (about the five journalists who lost contact while covering the activity of Mount Anak Krakatau),” said Dudy when met in Jakarta, as reported on Friday, 11 September 2026.

Dudy also reminded and urged the public to avoid activities in the vicinity of Mount Anak Krakatau unless they have an urgent need, especially while conditions in the area remain abnormal. Any activity around the area must be reported beforehand to the relevant authorities, including the Harbour Master, to ensure safety and anticipate potential risks.

He emphasised that his department has issued a notice to mariners for vessels passing through the Sunda Strait, meaning all operators are required to comply with safety regulations. Wave conditions in the area require close attention, as small vessels that lose engine power could be swept away by currents, posing a significant danger.

At the same location, the Director General of Sea Transportation at the Ministry of Transportation, Muhammad Mashyorkan, stated that the Ministry’s ranks are joining Basarnas, the Water Police, and elements of the Sea and Coast Guard (KPLP) in the search for the five journalists.

He noted that the Ministry of Transportation has also deployed patrol vessels to assist the joint SAR operation. “We are joining the SAR team, Basarnas, and elements of the Water Police. We are also participating via the KPLP. Our patrol vessels are involved, though the larger vessels used for several officers are provided by Basarnas,” said Mashyorkan.

The Head of the Banten SAR Office, Al Amrad, stated that based on visual monitoring using binoculars, there have been no signs of finding the five journalists who lost contact while covering the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau on Sertung Island.