The tragic incident at the Indah Kiat Port in Merak, Banten, occurred when the Passenger Motor Vessel (KMP) Mutiara Berkah I caught fire. The incident was first reported around 10:50 AM Western Indonesia Time (WIB).

The passenger ship was in the process of docking at the port owned by PT Indah Kiat when the fire suddenly broke out. Although it was not on its regular route from Merak to Bakauheni, the ship was en route from Merak to Panjang when the fire occurred.

Heru Amir, the Operations Coordinator of the Banten SAR Office, explained that there were more than 100 passengers on board the ship, and currently, they are all in the process of evacuation.

However, the exact cause of the fire in the ship's stern section is still unknown. Vigorous firefighting efforts are underway by combined personnel, utilizing fire trucks and tugboats. As of 12:58 PM WIB, the fire continues to rage with thick black smoke billowing high into the sky.

Authorities have deployed ambulance vehicles to the location to evacuate passengers who are still being accounted for. This incident is being taken seriously, and ongoing efforts are being made to ensure the safety of all passengers and address the emergency situation at the Indah Kiat Port in Merak, Banten. We will continue to provide updated information on this incident as further details become available.