Palembang, KOTABARI.COM – A tragic incident unfolded in the Musi River of Palembang as a boat caught fire with four individuals on board. Reports indicate that one victim has tragically lost their life in the incident, while two others sustained critical injuries and have been rushed to the hospital. One crew member is reported missing.
Confirming the incident, Palembang Police Chief, Commissioner Harryo Sugihhartono, conducted an inspection at the scene on Monday (4/1/2024).
“So far, that’s the information we’ve gathered from our initial inspection of the scene,” stated Harryo.
It’s known that there were four individuals aboard the boat, including the boat owner named Dedi, two crew members named Krisna and Ndut, and another individual named Askolani. The boat owner and one crew member in critical condition are currently receiving treatment at the RS Ak Gani Palembang. Meanwhile, the boat’s driver was found deceased, and one crew member is still missing.
Police, alongside relevant authorities, have surveyed the location of the incident and provided preliminary data to the media.
“The information we’ve gathered is still incomplete, but we aim to provide accurate updates to avoid confusion,” added Harryo.
Based on the on-site investigation, police suspect that the fire and explosion occurred as the boat was about to refuel.
“Sometime around late afternoon, a boat arrived to refuel at a floating gas station. However, the floating gas station was closed at the time. The boat remained near the floating gas station and suddenly caught fire and exploded,” explained Harryo.
Upon arriving at the scene, authorities discovered burnt wood and anchors from the boat on the floating gas station’s roof, indicating that the fire likely originated from the boat itself.
“The fire is believed to have originated from the boat, as burnt wood and anchors from the boat were found on the roof of the floating gas station, likely propelled by the explosion,” he elaborated.
Harryo emphasized that the case is still under investigation by the Palembang Police Criminal Investigation Unit, Water Police, SU I Investigators, and other relevant agencies.
“We are currently securing the scene to prevent any further incidents,” he concluded.