SAR Virgo Transport 8 Becomes Largest Operation in Five Years

The Head of the Banjarmasin Class A SAR Office, I Putu Sudayana, stated that the search and rescue operation for KMB Virgo Transport 8 is the largest in the last five years.

“Based on our records, this is the largest in terms of the deployment of SAR potential and also has the highest number of fatalities,” said Putu at Bhayangkara Hospital Banjarmasin on Tuesday night.

The operation has been underway since KMP Virgo Transport 8 sank in the Masalembo waters, Java Sea, on 13 September 2026, while sailing from Surabaya to Banjarmasin.

Putu noted that more than 1,200 joint personnel are involved in the search and rescue operation, which includes various elements and has now entered its 24th day.

Additionally, 63 specialised divers have been deployed to support underwater search and rescue efforts.

The deployed fleet includes seven aircraft and helicopters, as well as 24 large ships to sweep the targeted search areas.

“The search area continues to expand in line with field dynamics, covering the waters of South Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and West Kalimantan, including the Java Sea itself,” he said.

Meanwhile, 53 other victims remain missing as the SAR operation enters its 24th day.

“Our commitment is to continue finding the remaining victims as hoped by the families, but we must certainly consider field dynamics, including prioritising the safety of our personnel,” said Putu.

He expressed hope that similar incidents would not recur and suggested that an evaluation of maritime safety procedures be conducted, including for vessels traversing the Java Sea.