Search for Five Missing Journalists in Sunda Strait Expanded to Lampung Waters
The Lampung Regional Police have expanded the search area for five journalists and three crew members reported missing in the waters of the Sunderm Strait. The group had previously departed from Carita Beach, Pandeglang Regency, Banten, heading towards the Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK) area.
The Head of Public Relations for the Lampung Regional Police, Kombes Yuni Iswandari, stated that the expansion of the search area covers several points within the Lampung Police jurisdiction. This step was taken as an anticipation in case the victims were carried by sea currents towards the north.
“We are anticipating the possibility that the victims may have been carried towards Lampung waters. Hopefully, through these efforts, there will be a breakthrough and information regarding the whereabouts of our colleagues,” Yuni said in Bandar Lampung on Thursday (10/09/2026).
Based on gathered data, the group departed using a speedboat from Pagedongan Pier, Carita, on Monday (07/09/2026) at approximately 14:00 WIB. The last communication was recorded in the afternoon before eventually losing all contact.
There were eight people on board the vessel, consisting of five journalists and three crew members. One of the journalists managed to send location coordinates at approximately 14:42 WIB, before all communication was completely severed at 15:04 WIB.
The Lampung Regional Police have deployed Marine Police, Brimob, and are coordinating with Basarnas and personnel from the National Police Headquarters. On Wednesday (09/09), two teams swept around Sebesi Island and other Lampung waters, but have yet to yield results.
In addition to searching by boat, the police are also preparing options for aerial patrols. “God willing, if helicopters can fly and cloud and weather conditions permit, we will conduct patrols via the air,” Yuni added.
The Lampung Regional Police reaffirmed their commitment to continue assisting the search process alongside the joint SAR team until the victims are found. The police also expressed deep concern regarding the incident involving the media personnel.