Ferry accidents are common in Indonesian waters. The 'Senopati Nusantara', above, sank off the coast of Java in late 2006 with some 500 people aboard. (Photo: EPA)

Death Toll Rises to Four as Ferry Sinks in Indonesia's Riau Province

At least four people died off Indonesia's Sumatra island when a ferry sank in bad weather on Sunday, officials said.

More than 200 were aboard the Dumai Express 10 when it ran into rough seas in the Karimun Island area near Singapore. The boat was on its way from Batam to Dumai in Riau province.

High waves were making the operation difficult, said Brig. Gen. Puji Hartanto, the provincial police chief.

A second ferry ran aground on Moro Island after being battered by high waves. All passengers on the second ferry were said to be safe.

The passenger manifest said the Dumai Express 10 was carrying 228 passengers, including 15 children, said Yasin Kosasih, a local police chief. It was also carrying 14 crew, according to Lt. Col. Edwin, the local navy chief.

At least nine ships and several fishing boats were searching for those missing, Edwin said.

A journalist from el-Shinta radio reported from one of the rescue ships that passengers could be seen floating in the water around some small islets, but the ship could not reach them due to high waves and shallow waters. Passing boats have picked up dozens of those rescued.

Indonesian ferry accidents have killed hundreds of people in recent years. Boats are often overcrowded and safety regulations are poorly enforced.

JG

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