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MEDAN: Rescuers discovered the charred remains of at least seven people a day after a series of explosions aboard an Indonesian oil tanker, and police said Tuesday (May 12) that the number could increase.
The dead were among dozens trapped in the 250-meter (820-foot) Jag Leela when it erupted into flames after several explosions at Belawan port in northern Sumatra, one of the most active in the country.
Firefighters aboard another ship struggled for hours to extinguish hell on the Indonesian-flagged ship, which was docked for repairs.
“The deceased were among those trapped during the fire. They did not find an exit,” said local police spokesman MP Nainggolan.
DNA tests were being carried out to identify seriously burned victims, and part of the crew was still missing, he added.
The fire injured at least 22 people.
The cause of the blasts and fires is still unknown, authorities said.
Tina Siregar said two of her brothers could be among the dead.
“They were both working to repair the tank truck,” he said.
“They were on board when this happened.”
