Indonesia ferry tragedy kills three as hundreds jump into sea

Indonesian island of Sulawesi witnessed an unfortunate incident on July 20, 2025, when fire sparked in a ferry, carrying passengers and vehicles and caused three deaths and 560 people were rescued.

KM Barcelona 5, the boat was headed to North Sulawesi province capital, Manado, with a capacity of 600 passengers. The troubled vessel departed from Melonguane port of Talaud Islands for a 4-6 hours usual voyage.

Viral video and images on social media clearly show a burning ship with black smoke and people with life jackets trying their best to keep floating until emergency help staff arrives.

The coast guard department immediately sent six rescue ships at the spot and deployed inflatable life boats to save the maximum number of people who jumped into the sea.

Franky Pasuna Sihombing, chief of the Manado navy base confirmed that survivors were pulled from the sea and taken to nearby island for care. Local fishermen also volunteered in the operation and saved many lives.

Officials announced 5 deaths initially but later on Monday morning, July 21, 2025, National Search and Rescue Agency updated the count to three after 2 people who were initially reported dead just survived in the Intensive Care Unit including a 2 month old baby.

The Indonesian ferry was carrying 295 registered onboard individuals including 280 passengers and 15 crew members but authorities statement reveals 568 survivors as per latest update. The cause of tragedy is still unknown and authorities are trying to find it out.