Indonesian Ferry In Flames After Colliding with Barge, Death Toll Still Unclear

According to AFP reports, an Indonesian passenger ferry carrying 443 people has collided with a barge causing the ferry to catch fire. 

The KM Marina Nusantara had been travelling from eastern Java early Monday morning.  As it approached Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan province on Indonesian Borneo, the ferry loaded with 443 individuals, vehicles and other goods collided with a nearby barge.  The vessel caught fire as a result of the collision and forced passengers to evacuate the ship. 

So far, Xinhua news reports that the head of Search and Rescue Office in South Kalimanta, Rusli Ansyah, confirms the death count at 4 victims.  However, AFP reports the same official to have confirmed 2 victims of the crash.  Until rescue efforts have been concluded, the deal toll will remain unclear, especially because the search team expect more casualties.

All of the evacuees have been escorted to safety, or to a hospital if needed.

The 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia have a poor record of safety at sea, making this unfortunately not an unusual occurrence.  The incident is under investigation.