Two die as boat overturns

Two die as boat overturns

CILACAP, Central Java (JP): Two people were killed and seven are still missing after a barge carrying 15 passengers overturned when it was hit by a strong current while crossing the Cimeneng River, near Sitihinggil village, yesterday.

The passengers were residents of Bulaksari village on their way home after doing Idul Fitri shopping. The rope-propelled barge was the only means of crossing the river because the bridge was destroyed by recent floods.

The barge was crammed with groceries and five bicycles.

Police said the rope broke when the boat was half way across the river, in a strong current.

Last night rescue workers were still searching for the missing people, going downstream as far as the Segara Anakan Strait. (wah)