SAR Team Finds Two Boat Accident Victims In Barito River After Two Days Search
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| Joint SAR team recovered two victims from the Mitra Jaya V boat accident in the Barito River after two days of searching. The rescue operation has officially been concluded. |
After two days of intensive searching, a joint Search and Rescue (SAR) team successfully located two victims of a boat accident in the Barito River, near the dock of PT Multipersada Gatra Megah (MPG) in Muara Teweh, Barito Utara Regency, Central Kalimantan.
Head of the Palangka Raya SAR Office, AA Ketut Alit Supartana, confirmed that all victims had been found and the search operation was officially concluded.
“Both victims have been found and the SAR operation has been declared complete,” Alit said in Muara Teweh on Monday.
Chronology Of The Mitra Jaya V Boat Accident
The accident occurred on Saturday night, April 4, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m. local time. At the time, the Mitra Jaya V boat was attempting to dock at the PT MPG port.
Authorities suspect that a collision occurred during the docking process. As a result of the impact, a police officer and one crew member fell into the Barito River.
Limited visibility at night and strong river currents posed significant challenges for rescuers during the search operation.
First Victim Found Two Kilometers From Initial Location
The first victim was identified as Bripda Vikma Setiawan, a resident of Veteran Street, Margo Rukun Alley, Beriwit Village, Murung District, Murung Raya Regency.
He was found at approximately 8:31 a.m., about two kilometers from the initial accident site.
According to the Head of the Palangka Raya SAR Office, the victim was found floating on the surface of the river.
“The first victim was found floating and immediately evacuated before being handed over to the family,” Alit explained.
Second Victim Found Near Accident Site
Shortly after the first recovery, the SAR team located the second victim, identified as Aleksandro Brianonggasa (25).
He was a crew member originally from Rokirole Village, Palue District, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara.
The second victim was found approximately 500 meters from the accident site.
After recovery, the victim was transported to the nearest hospital for further handling.
“The second victim was found not far from the accident location and was immediately evacuated to the hospital,” he stated.
Both victims were found deceased after intensive search efforts conducted by the joint SAR team.
Search Operation Involved Multiple Agencies
The rescue operation involved several agencies working together in coordinated efforts on the ground.
The joint team included:
Palangka Raya SAR Office
Police personnel
Barito Utara Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD)
Local community members
This collaborative effort played a crucial role in the successful recovery of both victims.
With all victims recovered, the SAR operation was officially declared complete, and all personnel were withdrawn from the site.
“We appreciate all SAR personnel who worked tirelessly in the field until the victims were successfully recovered,” said AA Ketut Alit Supartana.
Maritime Safety Measures Need Greater Attention
This incident highlights the importance of strict safety procedures during docking operations, especially in river ports.
Proper safety supervision, disciplined operational standards, and crew readiness are key factors in preventing similar incidents in the future.
Environmental factors such as river currents, weather conditions, and lighting around docking areas should also receive careful attention.
FAQ
1. Where did the boat accident occur?
The accident took place in the Barito River near the PT Multipersada Gatra Megah dock in Muara Teweh, Barito Utara, Central Kalimantan.
2. When did the Mitra Jaya V accident happen?
The incident occurred on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m.
3. Who were the victims?
The victims were Bripda Vikma Setiawan and Aleksandro Brianonggasa (25), a crew member of the vessel.
4. How long did the search operation last?
The search lasted for two days before both victims were found.
5. Has the SAR operation ended?
Yes. The SAR operation has officially been concluded after both victims were recovered.
