Wife Hopes Missing Journalist is Found, Basarnas Awaiting New Information

Desi Purnama Sari, the wife of Antara journalist Muhammad Bagus Khoirunas, who went missing in the waters of the Sunda Strait, still hopes that the search for her husband can continue. Basarnas Banten stated that, to date, they have not received any new information or findings regarding the whereabouts of the journalist and the missing crew members.

The Head of the Operations and Readiness Sub-Section of Basarnas Banten, Rizky Dwianto, said that his agency is still monitoring information related to the missing journalists and ship crew. So far, there have been no new clues.

“Up to this point, we are still monitoring the relevant authorities, and so far, there is nothing,” Rizki said when confirmed on Monday (21/9/2026).

When asked about the possibility of resuming the search, Rizki stated that it could be conducted if new information or findings are discovered.

“Yes, according to the regulations, that is how it works,” he added.

The eight missing individuals consist of five journalists—namely M Bagus Khoirunnas (Antara), Ari Basuki (Merdeka), Yudhis (iNews), Daus (Anadolu), and Donal Husni (freelance)—and three ship crew members, namely Warta, Surakman, and Heriyanto. They were known to be in a speedboat after completing coverage of the developments at Mount Anak Krakatau.

The search was conducted for a week and extended by an additional three days before the operation was officially closed in accordance with search procedures. However, SAR authorities stated they would continue the search if new clues are found.

Wife Hopes Journalist Can Be Found

Previously, Desi expressed her hope that her husband, who went missing in the Sunda Strait, could be found. She hopes that the search can be restarted.

“As the wife of Muhammad Bagus Khoirunas, my hope is certainly that the search can still be carried out,” said Desi on Monday (21/9).

She noted that the search for the group of missing journalists was halted after ten days. She hopes for signs that would allow the search for the victims to be reopened.

“Even though the search conducted by the joint SAR team has been stopped after ten days, I hope for a follow-up search,” she said.