Kolaka, SE Sulawesi (ANTARA News) - Cement carrying KMP Dilla Samudra I from Biringkassi port in Pangkajene regency, South Sulawesi, went down in Tanggetada waters, Kolaka regency, SE Sulawesi.

Kolaka SAR post coordinator Budi Raharjo said here Sunday the cargo boat was struck by very high waves Saturday at 10 PM and developed a big leak.

Before the vessel went down, its skipper intentionally stranded it on the nearest coral reef island, but the big waves and strong wind caused the boat to develop a leak and eventually went down.

Fortunately the accident did not cost the live of any of the 15-member crew as they managed to swing to the shore safely and were rescued by the Kolaka SAR team.

" All the documents and navigational equipment of the vessel could be saved," he said.

The cargo vessel skippered by Yosep Sampe, left Biringkasi Pangkep port at 6 AM at January 12 and headed to Kolaka port.

But the vessel supposed to cast its anchor at Kolaka port on January 15 was struck by high waves and strong winds in Tanggetada waters, but the skipper still had the chance to contact its owner and the Kolaka port administrator when it started to be struck at 9 PM. (*)

Editor: Kunto Wibisono
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