Indonesia deploys 1,000 rescuers as search for ferry victims continues
Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan (ANTARA) - More than 1,000 emergency personnel have been deployed as the search for 57 people missing from the sunken Virgo Transport 8 ferry entered its 18th day on Wednesday.
Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) expanded its operation off South Kalimantan, deploying a task force of 1,042 personnel from the military, police, and government ministries across air, sea, and land operations.
"Currently, a total of 1,042 personnel are involved, supported by various types of equipment, to strengthen the search for the missing victims," SAR Mission Coordinator I Putu Sudayana told reporters on Wednesday.
The multi-agency rescue effort includes 11 vessels, three helicopters, 63 specialized divers, and 42 ambulances stationed on land.
Despite intensive underwater diving operations on Wednesday, search teams found no additional victims.
Officials said diving operations will continue at full capacity into the 19th day.
The ferry was carrying 243 people when it sank.
As of Wednesday, authorities confirmed 186 people have been accounted for, including 108 survivors and 78 confirmed deaths.
Translator: Tumpal Andani, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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