inp.polri.go.id - Asmat. A joint search and rescue team from the Water and Air Police Unit, the Indonesian Navy, and the Agats National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) conducted a search for missing victims in Agats on Wednesday (1/14/2026).

The incident began when a small boat carrying seven people sank in the waters of the Asue River estuary on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

The Head of the Water and Air Police Unit of Asmat Sub-regional Police, First Police Inspector Rizeth S. Paotonan stated that of the seven drowning victims, six were rescued by local fishermen.

"Meanwhile, one passenger, Abraham Aitu, was missing and his fate and whereabouts are unknown," said Rizeth S. Paotonan.

Rizeth also stated that six personnel from the Joint Search and Rescue Team departed for the sinking site at 10:20 a.m. to search for the victim.

"Members conducted a search from the Atsj district, Amanamkai Village, to the Aswi district, Bipim Village. However, due to rough sea conditions, the rescue team suspended the search. The Joint Search and Rescue Team is temporarily on standby at the Atsj Sector Police to rest and will resume the search tomorrow, Thursday, January 15, 2026," concluded Rizeth.

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