Sad news from the waters of the Taliabu Islands, North Maluku. A speedboat named Bela 72 exploded and caught fire near Bobong Regional Port, Bobong Village, West Taliabu District, Taliabu Regency, North Maluku Province. The explosion occurred on Saturday afternoon, October 12, 2024, and claimed several lives, including North Maluku Governor candidate Benny Laos.

The local police, through the Taliabu Island Police Chief, AKBP Totok Handoyo, has confirmed that Benny Laos did not survive this incident. Besides Benny, five other people were also killed, including Provincial House of Representatives member Ester Tantri and several other local political figures. Currently, the evacuation process is still ongoing.

The explosion that destroyed the speedboat happened so quickly and resulted in flames that devoured the entire body of the ship. In addition to the six fatalities, nine other people were injured, including Benny Laos' wife, Sherly Juanda, and Sula Islands Regent Candidate, Hendrata Thes.

Meanwhile, 15 injured people are currently being treated at three different hospitals in the region.

Until this news was revealed, the police were still investigating to find out the exact cause of the explosion. The people of North Maluku and surrounding areas are awaiting further developments from the authorities regarding this tragedy.