The Jakarta Globe, Apr 19, 2014
Kupang. Seven people died after a fishing boat sank during a Good Friday procession in the Gonzalu Strait, in the Larantuka, East Flores district of East Nusa Tenggara.
Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for the National Disaster Agency (BNPB), said the incident took place at around 11 p.m. local time on Friday.
The disaster agency reported that seven passengers — three children and four adults — drowned in the accident, which 46 other passengers survived.
“Twenty-nine people are still being cared for at East Flores General Hospital, and 17 people have gone back to their homes,” Sutopo said in a text message.
He said it was unclear how many people were aboard the boat as there was no
passenger manifest.
One media report said the boat was carrying 53 passengers, while another reported that there were 60 on board.
A joint search-and-rescue team was still looking for other passengers on Friday.
The Catholic pilgrims were taking part in Larantuka’s traditional maritime procession on Good Friday as part of the Easter celebration.
The boat sank due to overcapacity and strong sea currents. Sutopo said passengers screamed and jumped into the sea as the boat sank. They were soon helped by other boats in the procession.
Police are still questioning the captain of the boat.
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za 19 apr 2014 - 5:41