Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian National Police (INP) reinforced joint Search and Rescue (SAR) operations following the loss of contact and sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8 near Masalembu Island, South Kalimantan. 

Speaking on Sunday (13/9/2026), INP Public Relations Division Head of the Public Information Bureau Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko confirmed that out of 243 people on board, joint forces rescued 124 survivors, recovered one deceased victim, and continue searching for 118 missing victims.

"The INP provides full support for the SAR operations of KM Virgo Transport 8," he said. "Our primary priority is the search, rescue, and evacuation of all remaining passengers and crew."

The INP Water and Air Corps deployed three police vessels KP Laksmana-7012, KP Ibis-6001, and KP Manyar-5003 alongside helicopters, Basarnas ships, and naval units. 

Furthermore, the INP established six Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) posts and official information centers across East Java and South Kalimantan to manage victim identification and support affected families.

(mg/ta/pr/rs)