Indonesia Ferry Fire Kills Five, Dozens Injured

The passenger ferry KM Barcelona 5 caught fire off the coast of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, on Sunday while traveling toward Manado, resulting in at least five deaths, including a pregnant woman, and injuries to dozens more. The fire broke out around 1:30 pm local time, forcing many of the over 280 passengers to leap into the sea to escape the flames and thick smoke. Dramatic rescue efforts by the Indonesian Navy, coast guard, local search and rescue teams, and nearby fishermen led to the evacuation of over 280 people, though the exact number of passengers and crew remains unconfirmed. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the blaze. The incident comes just weeks after another deadly ferry accident in the region, underscoring ongoing concerns about maritime safety in Indonesia. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as officials look for any remaining missing passengers.