Passengers jump overboard as ferry catches fire off North Sulawesi

CHAOS and panic gripped passengers aboard the KM Gregorius Barcelona V on Sunday after the passenger ferry caught fire while sailing in the waters near Talise Island, North Sulawesi.

Thick black smoke was seen billowing from the upper decks of the vessel in videos circulating on social media, prompting terrified passengers to don life jackets and leap into the sea in a desperate bid to escape.

“Please help us, KM Gregorius Barcelona V is on fire in front of Talise Island. We need help, the ship is burning,” pleaded one passenger in a video that has since gone viral.

Some passengers, including families with children, remained on board awaiting rescue, while others jumped overboard in panic. Footage showed a woman in distress swimming away from the vessel as she cried out for help from search and rescue personnel.

There has been no official statement on injuries or fatalities. Local authorities and rescue teams are conducting ongoing evacuation and recovery efforts.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. - July 20, 2025