Inp.polri.go.id - Klaten. Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi has dispatched the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) to investigate the cause of a speedboat fire in North Maluku that resulted in multiple fatalities. 

During a visit to the Klaten Station in Central Java on Sunday (13/10/2024), he emphasized the importance of coordination with the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) for immediate rescue efforts.

“While some passengers survived the accident, sadly, there were also casualties,” he said. “To determine the accident's cause, we will work with the police and the KNKT.”

Minister Bud Karya said. He highlighted the ongoing high-speed activities in North Maluku but stressed the need for stringent safety measures.

“We need to reassess regulations, including licensing, to ensure safety is prioritized,” he added, as reported by antaranews.com.

The fire occurred on the speedboat Bella 72, which was transporting the campaign team of North Maluku gubernatorial candidates Benny Laos and Sabrin Sehe while docking at the regional port of Bobong on Saturday.  Benny and five other passengers died due to the incident.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)