Pius Nsabe
A devastating fire has engulfed the KM Barcelona passenger ferry near Talise Island, North Sulawesi, Indonesia, sparking chaos and panic among the over 280 people on board. Eyewitnesses report scenes of desperation as terrified passengers, including families with children, jumped into the sea to escape the rapidly spreading flames.
The fire, which broke out on Saturday afternoon, spread quickly through the vessel, forcing many passengers to abandon their belongings and leap into the water. Rescue teams from Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) have launched a large-scale evacuation and are deploying multiple rescue boats, helicopters, and emergency teams to bring the situation under control.
A survivor, identified as Agus Rahman, told local media: “We were about halfway to our destination when we saw smoke from the lower deck. Within minutes, there was fire everywhere. People were screaming, and many just jumped into the water without life jackets.”
Another passenger, Maria Sondakh, recounted the chaos, saying: “The crew tried to calm us, but the fire was too fast. We took our children and jumped. The sea was our only hope.”
Basarnas chief, Air Marshal Henri Alfiandi, confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing. “We have deployed at least five rescue boats and two helicopters to the scene. Our focus is on ensuring all passengers and crew are accounted for and brought to safety,” he said.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though maritime authorities have not ruled out mechanical failure or electrical faults. Officials are working with the ferry company to obtain the full passenger manifest to verify the number of people still missing.
As of press time, no casualties have been officially confirmed, though some passengers have been treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries. The Indonesian Navy and local fishermen have joined efforts to rescue survivors from the sea.
Talise Island residents have reported seeing plumes of black smoke from the ferry several miles offshore. Emergency responders are establishing temporary shelters on the island for rescued passengers, with medical teams on standby.
The KM Barcelona, a popular inter-island ferry, was en route to Manado when the fire started. Authorities have urged calm and assured the public that updates will be provided as rescue operations continue.
