The Water and Air Police Directorate of the East Java Regional Police has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire on the Motor Passenger Ship KMP Mutiara Sentosa II that occurred in the northern waters of Sumenep Regency. Brigadier General Arman Asmara, head of the Water and Air Police Directorate of the East Java Regional Police, said investigators have questioned seven witnesses as part of the initial investigation, with a note that this figure could increase as the investigation continues.
Police will use the Scientific Crime Investigation method to trace the entire sequence of the ship's operations from departure procedures through to when the fire occurred. The investigation begins with examining vehicles and passengers entering through the port before the ship departed, with each party responsible in the process being questioned.
In addition to questioning witnesses, investigators are also exploring the possibility of tracing the issuance of the Sailing Approval Letter, examining passenger manifests and ship cargo documents, and gathering statements from victims and surviving passengers. Arman did not reveal the identities or background of the seven witnesses questioned, stating that the entire examination process is being handled by the Law Enforcement Sub-directorate of the Water and Air Police Directorate of the East Java Regional Police.
Investigators are also collecting various documents, evidence, and supporting facts in the investigation process being conducted comprehensively. According to Arman, the investigation does not focus on just one aspect but on the entire sequence related to the ship fire incident.
The KMP Mutiara Sentosa II, operating the Surabaya-Makassar route, caught fire severely in the northern waters of Sumenep on 2 August. Based on Basarnas data as of 4 August, 238 people on the ship were evacuated, with 233 of them surviving and five people dead, while four passengers remain missing.
