15-8-2023 (JAKARTA) In a heartening turn of events, six individuals, including four Australian surfers, who were reported missing off the west coast of Indonesia’s Sumatra island after their boat encountered treacherous weather conditions, have been located and found alive, according to an official statement made on Tuesday, the 15th of August.
The incident unfolded when two boats, carrying a total of 17 people, embarked on a journey from Nias island to the private island of Pinang on Sunday. However, one of the boats, carrying four Australians and three Indonesian crew members, failed to reach its destination, sparking concerns and leading to the launch of a thorough search-and-rescue operation on Monday.
The search efforts proved successful as rescuers managed to locate the four Australians and two Indonesian crew members alive and well. They are currently receiving medical attention at the Pinang resort. The authorities are persistently searching for the remaining Indonesian crew member who is still unaccounted for. Octavianto, the head of the local rescue agency, confirmed the ongoing search for the missing individual around the waters near Tuangku island and Palawak island.
A touching moment captured on video by Australian media showcased the father of one of the missing Australian surfers reading a text message from his son. The message read, “Hey Dad, Elliot here. I am alive, safe now, love you. Chat later.” The relieved father expressed his emotions, stating that he eagerly anticipated reconnecting with his son and friends. He shared his relief and happiness at the positive outcome, emphasizing the adventurous story that his son will have to share following this ordeal.
Accidents involving boats are unfortunately common in Indonesia, an expansive archipelago composed of over 17,000 islands. Lax safety standards often result in overloaded vessels lacking sufficient life-saving equipment. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by maritime travelers within the region.
Notably, in 2018, a tragic incident occurred when a ferry sank in one of the world’s deepest lakes located in Sumatra, leading to the loss of over 150 lives. Similarly, last year, a ferry carrying more than 800 passengers ran aground in shallow waters off East Nusa Tenggara province. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident highlighted the vulnerabilities and risks associated with maritime travel in the area.
“Hi dad, Elliot here. I’m alive.”
Vision has emerged of the moments four Australian surfers are rescued and their families are contacted, after the group became lost at sea off the coast of Indonesia. #9News
MORE: https://t.co/ZUbfKU8ZRL pic.twitter.com/JPhcMXTJAI
— 9News Sydney (@9NewsSyd) August 15, 2023
