Cleaning the hold at Kejawanan Port, Cirebon, two crew members died and one was critical

"Three victims were found, two of whom died," said Eko.

Another victim is in critical condition. When found, the three victims were in a hold or diesel storage container. Officers and other crew members (ABK) immediately evacuated the victims.

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The two fatalities were D (40), a resident of Kejaksan, Cirebon City; and AS (45), a resident of Dukuhpuntang, Cirebon Regency. Both have been taken to Gunung Jati Cirebon Regional Hospital. Meanwhile, AS (39), a resident of Dukupuntang, is being intensively treated at Pelabuhan Hospital.

According to Anggi, at the time of the incident, the three victims were allegedly cleaning and draining the tank. "For further details, we will later obtain statements from witnesses because until now we have not received definitive information. We are still investigating the crime scene," he said.

Until Tuesday evening, the police line still surrounds the 97 gross ton (GT) ship. In addition to officials, residents are prohibited from approaching the location. Unpleasant odors can be smelled around the ship. Using masks and gloves, the police also took pictures of some parts of the ship.

Anggi stated that they have examined four witnesses who are the victim's colleagues and local fishermen. They do not rule out the possibility of asking for testimony from the boat owner.

"Of course, we will examine the parties involved and those who can provide testimony," he said.

Anggi also does not yet know of any alleged work negligence in the incident. The same goes for allegations of violence or gas poisoning on the victim, as they are still awaiting the results of the autopsy. "We will handle (the investigation) properly," he said.

Covered in diesel fuel

We are still investigating the completeness of equipment that should have been used when draining the ship's bilge. For example, tools to check air temperature. Moreover, the place is enclosed and dark. In three years of duty at the port, this is the first time he has seen a crew member die on the bilge.

The information we received was that (the cause of the incident) was gas poisoning.

Novirman Robi, an officer from Kejawanan Port Authority, stated that KM Aji Citra Samodra has been registered at the port. The vessel is docked at the harbor for repairs. His team has reminded the ship's owner and crew to ensure safety aspects.

The company has requested its workers to provide adequate equipment, such as using air suction fans or wearing masks when cleaning solar panels. "Moreover, the information we received indicates that (the cause of the incident) was due to gas poisoning," said Robi.

Apart from adequate equipment, he continued, the condition of the crew also needs to be considered when checking the hatch. He asked all relevant parties to ensure safety aspects on ships. "The officers always give directions. "But, we can't watch every ship 24 hours a day," he said.

Currently, around 250 ships are operating in the Kejawanan Fishing Port. Most of them are over 30 GT in size and have 12 to 15 crew members on board. These ships can sail for three to four months to various regions. In April, fish production in the port exceeded 175 tons.

Also read: Measured Catch at Kejawanan Port, Cirebon, Waiting for Government Permit