A motor ship named KM Cahaya Intan Celebes GT 44 sank in the waters of Poleang, Bombana Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, carrying 13 passengers and seven crew members. The vessel suffered a leak due to large waves and strong winds, but all passengers were rescued by local fishermen. They were evacuated to Boepinang Bombana Health Center.
On Saturday, February 14, 2026, Basarnas Kendari reported that the KM Cahaya Intan Celebes GT 44 sank in the waters of Poleang, Bombana Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province. The ship was carrying 13 passengers and seven crew members, departing from Bajoe Port in Bone City around 00.00 Wita, bound for Boepinang Bombana Port.
According to Basarnas Kendari spokesperson Wahyudi, the incident occurred around 09.00 Wita when the ship developed a leak in the open sea, allowing seawater to enter the hull. "At that time, the ship departed from Bajoe Port in Bone City destined for Boepinang Bombana Port," said Wahyudi. He added that all passengers and crew were successfully rescued by nearby fishermen and evacuated to Boepinang Bombana Health Center.
Head of Kolaka SAR Post Haeruddin provided further details, stating that the hull leak happened at 06.00 Wita due to being struck by large waves and strong winds. "At that time, the crew tried to pump out the water using four units of alkon machines. However, they were still unable to do so," explained Haeruddin. Unable to drain the water, the captain approached a nearby fishing boat, allowing the evacuation of all passengers before the ship fully sank.
There were no reported fatalities in this incident, thanks to the quick response from local fishermen. Basarnas continues to monitor the situation in those waters.
