Ferry Sinking: Search Operations to End – Indonesia
Basarnas Hints at End to Search for Missing in Tunu Pratama jaya Ferry Disaster
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Jakarta, Indonesia - July 21, 2025 – The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) is signaling a potential conclusion to its extensive search operations for individuals still missing following the tragic sinking of the roll-on/roll-off ferry, Tunu Pratama Jaya, on July 2, 2025. The agency indicated that the search efforts might potentially be called off if ongoing field assessments deem them no longer effective.
Search period Nears Conclusion
Basarnas Chief Mohammad Syafii announced on Monday that the extended search period, which was initially set for one week and later prolonged by an additional seven days until today, July 21, 2025, has officially concluded. While SAR operations are typically conducted for a standard week, Syafii explained that extensions can be granted under special circumstances. However, he reiterated that the search can be terminated if it is determined to be ineffective.
“Basarnas is not an administrative body,” Syafii emphasized. “It is a government agency with branches operating all over the country to deal with emergencies.” This statement underscores the agency’s operational mandate and its commitment to resource allocation based on the efficacy of its missions.
Operational Handover and Ongoing Efforts
Earlier reports confirmed that Basarnas had transferred the coordination of the search mission for the passengers of the sunken ferry to its Surabaya office. The Surabaya SAR agency has been diligently continuing the search for the remaining 16 passengers who were unaccounted for after the incident.
Ferry Disaster Details
The Tunu Pratama Jaya ferry departed from ketapang Port in Banyuwangi, East Java, at 10:56 p.m. local time on July 2. The vessel was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles.Tragically, it sank en route to Gilimanuk Port in Bali around 11:35 p.m.local time. The wreckage of the ferry was later located on the seabed of the Bali Strait, approximately 50 meters below the sea’s surface.
As of the evening of July 15,the confirmed death toll from the mishap stood at 19,with 30 individuals having survived the disaster. The ongoing efforts by the Surabaya SAR agency reflect the commitment to providing closure for the families affected by this devastating incident.
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