Search for Missing Journalists Using KP Sanjaya Hindered by Poor Visibility
Cilegon, Banten (ANTARA) - Banten Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Hengki, stated that the search for the team of journalists and three crew members who lost contact while using the Police Ship (KP) Sanjaya is being hindered by poor visibility due to heavy cloud cover.
“The obstacle today is visibility. Our visibility is approximately 3 miles due to heavy fog, and wind speeds were quite high, reaching 2’24-25 knots, which has presented a challenge, but it has not dampened the motivation and intention of the integrated team,” he said while participating in the search operation around Sertung Island, Banten, on Saturday.
He emphasised that the joint SAR team continues to exert maximum effort to find the missing journalists and crew members using capable personnel and supporting infrastructure.
“Our infrastructure is quite sufficient, but it must be accompanied by our collective prayers. Let us pray together so that we may soon find a clear sign regarding the whereabouts of our colleagues,” he said.
Hengki emphasised that on the fifth day of the search, which has yet to yield results, the SAR team continues to deploy all available resources, including expanding the search sectors.
“Basarnas may add more sectors to expand the search range; the search will continue for up to one week, lasting until Monday, with two days remaining,” he noted.
“If a speedboat has sunk or is floating—specifically if there is metal or any object floating—our ships are equipped with radar to monitor and detect everything, especially if it is floating on the sea surface, as we also possess thermal cameras,” Hengki added.
Entering the fifth day of the SAR operation, the Joint SAR Team is expanding the sweeping area via sea and air routes for the group of journalists who lost contact in the waters of the Sunda Strait, Carita District, Pandeglang Regency, Banten.
“Entering the fifth day, we are once again expanding the search area by dividing the region into several sectors, both via sea and air routes. All involved SAR elements are being optimised to sweep the designated areas,” said the Head of the Banten Search and Rescue Office, Al Amrad, in Pandeglang, on Saturday.
He stated that there are six maritime search sectors, namely Sectors T, U, Z, W, X, and Y, covering a total search area of approximately 2,537 nautical square miles. Meanwhile, the aerial search through Sector H covers an area of approximately 2,063 nautical square miles.
He emphasised that the safety of personnel remains the primary concern during the operation, given the dynamic conditions of the Sunda Strait waters.