Five Dead in Speedboat Accident in Bangka Belitung

Central Bangka, Bangka Belitung (Antara Babel) - Five passengers reportedly died after a speed boat capsized in Nangka Island water, Sungaiselan Subdistrict, Central Bangka Regency of Bangka Belitung Province on Sunday.

The speedboat "Rasyida" was carrying 28 passengers before sinking after being hit by big waves in Nangka Island water.

"Five passengers died in the accident while the other passengers have been evacuated," Chief of Central Bangka Police Water Adjunct Commissioner Suhairi said.

The ill-fated speedboat was heading to Sungaiselan after departed from Route 14 Palembang. The boat was unstable and capsized after being hit by high wave and strong wind.

"The boat capsized one mile away from Nangka Island," Suhairi said.

The authority has evacuated the 23 survivors to Sungaiselan and will conduct further investigation about the accident.

Local water police had stationed its personnel to Sungaiselan to monitor and report the situation update.

"Be advised during the voyage as the weather is unpredictable and risk is higher for smaller boat," Suhairi said.