Politics · Singapore Bureau
Indonesian authorities arrest ferry captain over capsizing incident
Police have detained the captain of a ferry that capsized in Indonesian waters on suspicion of violating maritime safety regulations. The vessel operator is accused of knowingly operating a ship deemed unfit for service.
LSN Singapore ·
Indonesian police have arrested the captain of the capsized ferry on charges of breaching the country's shipping laws, authorities said. The captain is suspected of deliberately sailing a vessel that failed to meet seaworthiness standards, putting passengers and crew at risk.
The arrest comes following the incident involving the passenger ferry, which went down in waters under Indonesian jurisdiction. Initial investigations by maritime authorities indicated that the vessel's operational status and maintenance records may have been compromised prior to the voyage.
Indonesia's maritime safety laws impose strict requirements on vessel operators and captains to ensure ships meet minimum safety standards before departing port. Violations can result in criminal charges, administrative fines, and licence suspensions.
The incident adds to growing concerns about maritime safety in Southeast Asia's busy shipping lanes. Authorities have pledged to conduct a comprehensive review of the vessel's maintenance records and the ferry company's compliance history as the investigation continues.