Basarnas Divers Search Wreck of KM Virgo Transport 8

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Joint Search and Rescue (SAR) team has intensified efforts to locate victims of the vessel KM Virgo Transport 8. On Sunday, September 20, 2026, six personnel from the National Search and Rescue Agency’s (Basarnas) Special Group (BSG) were deployed to conduct dives into the vessel.

The dives focus on locating victims believed to still be inside the ship. Meanwhile, the KN SAR Kamajaya search and rescue vessel is sweeping the surrounding waters and will drop anchor to support the diving operations.

Basarnas Head M. Syafii said all search efforts are being maximized while prioritizing personnel safety. The current operation is focused on recovering victims.

“Our focus is on finding the victims. We will continue to make every effort, but the safety of the divers remains the priority,” Syafii said.

The SAR operation continues with maritime assets and dive teams deployed around the KM Virgo Transport 8. The operation is carried out with a commitment to personnel safety and respect for the victims.

For the joint SAR team, this evacuation is more than transporting victims from sea to shore. Behind every body bag is a family hoping to be reunited with their loved one.

After days of searching, three victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 were successfully brought to shore. The KN SAR Kamajaya, carrying the three victims, arrived at Tri Sakti Pier in Banjarmasin on Friday night, September 18, 2026.

The accident involving the KM Virgo Transport 8 occurred in the early hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the Java Sea while the vessel was en route from Surabaya to Banjarmasin. (Misni Parjiati)