Apr 10 UPDATE: Fire erupted at around 2120 LT Apr 9, a car on cargo deck said to be the cause. At least three cars burned, passengers were mustered at upper deck, awaiting evacuation. There are 76 passengers and 37 crew on board. Officials said fire was extinguished by 0100 LT Apr 10, now rescuers are busy with cooling and extinguishing smoldering spots.
Apr 9: Ferry MUTIARA PERSADA III caught fire at night Apr 9 while en route from Jakarta to Panjang Port, South Sumatra, Sunda Strait, west of Jakarta. Vessel was brought to anchor near Pulau Tunda Island, passengers and reportedly, crew, evacuated. As of 0400 UTC Apr 10, vessel was in the same position, with rescue ship, tug and a passenger vessel MUTIARA TIMUR 1 at her side, so understood, rescue/evacuation still under way. No injures reported. Condition of MUTIARA PERSADA III unknown.
