SAR Team Searches for 3 Missing After Migrant Worker Boat Capsizes off Rupat Island

A joint SAR team is intensifying its search for three victims of a boat capsize in the waters off Rupat Island, Dumai, Riau. The twin-engine speedboat reportedly overturned after being hit by bad weather while carrying more than a dozen migrant workers heading to Malaysia.

Head of the Pekanbaru Class A Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas), Budi Cahyadi, explained that the accident occurred on Friday (14/8) at around 8.30 pm WIB. Based on a report from the Dumai Water Police, the boat departed from the Rupat area but was struck by heavy rain and strong winds mid-journey.

“During the journey, the boat was hit by heavy rain, strong winds, and a storm until it finally capsized,” Budi said on Sunday (16/8).

After the incident, several passengers were swept away and attempted to save themselves before being found by a passing vessel near the location. The survivors were then evacuated to Dumai. Police are currently conducting in-depth data collection to establish the chronology and exact identities of all passengers.

Based on preliminary data gathered by the Pekanbaru SAR Office, a total of 15 people were on board the vessel. The SAR operation entered its second day on Sunday (16/8). The joint team began moving at 7.00 am WIB after a coordination briefing. The team’s main focus is to re-sweep an area of 122 square nautical miles while taking into account fluctuating sea dynamics.

Budi stressed that personnel safety remains the top priority amid weather conditions that are not yet fully stable. All field teams have been instructed to wear complete personal protective equipment and remain alert to sudden weather changes.

“The joint SAR team continues to search for the missing victims while paying attention to weather conditions and the safety of all personnel in the field. Periodic evaluations will continue based on developments in the waters of Rupat Island,” he concluded.