Two Die as Maluku's Speedboat Sinks

Ambon, Maluku 24 (Antara) - A speedboat travelling from Oma Village in Haruku Island of Central Maluku District to Tulehu of Ambon Island, on Tuesday morning, sank after succumbing to giant waves and strong winds, resulting in two deaths. The two victims, identified as Sekawael and Haumahu, have been evacuated to Oma Village, stated Secretary of Maluku Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) Kifly Wakanno. "However, we are yet to know the exact number of people on board the ill-fated speedboat," Wakanno stated, adding that information regarding the sinking boat was received through an SMS from Elia Kesya, a resident of Haruku Village. The speedboat sank as a result of giant waves and strong winds amid extreme weather. "Thus, please do not sail under the extreme weather conditions to avoid unexpected eventualities," Wakanno advised. (*)