5 Dead, 15 Injured in Indonesian Tanker Explosion and Fire

Indonesian officials are investigating a serious incident involving an explosion and fire on an interisland tanker near Tepekong Island, located off the eastern coast of Bali in the Java Sea. The tragic event resulted in the deaths of five crew members, with three others suffering severe burns and twelve sustaining less critical injuries. The tanker had a total of 21 crew members on board.

The Karangasem Police received notification of the fire on the tanker Elisabet Satu (3,639 dwt) at approximately 0300 local time. Emergency response teams, including fireboats and an evacuation crew, were dispatched to the scene to assist the Indonesia-registered oil product tanker. Built in 2016 and operated by a local firm, the vessel was reportedly carrying fuel oil at the time of the incident.

The captain described the sudden explosion that led to the ship losing power and going dark. “We were caught off guard by the explosion and immediately requested assistance,” he told authorities.

A survivor recounted that the initial explosion seemed to originate from the accommodation area. Upon investigation, he discovered several bodies on the deck and found the helmsmen on the bridge severely burned.

Reports indicated a subsequent explosion, which was followed by a fire in the engine room. There are also claims that the vessel ran aground after losing power.

According to police reports, five crew members, including oilers and an engineer, succumbed to their injuries. Three others were hospitalized with burns covering 80 percent of their bodies, while the remaining twelve were treated for less severe injuries at a different hospital.

Authorities are currently interviewing survivors to determine the cause of the explosions and fire. The investigation is ongoing.

Image credit: Handout Indonesia Police