Indonesian Navy rescues 17 from sunken tourist boat

The Indonesian Navy executed a successful rescue operation after the tourist vessel KM Putri Papua sank in Raja Ampat waters. The Pinisi-style vessel, operated by Grand Komodo, encountered severe weather conditions with towering waves and strong winds, leading to its capsizing.

All 17 people aboard, including six foreign tourists (two British nationals) and Indonesian crew members, were saved after spending hours in open waters. The rescue was conducted by KRI Matabongsang 973, which was patrolling the area when the incident occurred. The operation lasted approximately three hours after receiving an emergency report from the Raja Ampat naval post.

The vessel reportedly experienced engine failure before its rapid submersion. Rescuers located the survivors after spotting a smoke signal, though radio contact was briefly established before being lost. The ship had completely submerged by the time of the evacuation.

The survivors were transported to Lantamal XIV Sorong naval base, where they were received by Commander Rear Admiral Joni Sudianto. They were subsequently taken to RSAL Dokter Oetojo Hospital for medical evaluation. Two crew members sustained minor injuries, while the tourists experienced severe trauma from the ordeal.

One survivor, Bruno from Slovakia, expressed gratitude to the Indonesian Navy while recounting the harrowing experience of the vessel's violent rocking amid the storm. Authorities are now arranging the repatriation of the foreign tourists after completing necessary medical assessments and documentation.

The incident has been reported as a navigational hazard and serves as a reminder of the importance of maritime safety protocols in Indonesia's tourism sector, particularly in challenging weather conditions.