Indonesian rescuers search for Spanish football coach and three children after tour boat sinks
Jakarta — Indonesian rescue teams are searching for a Spanish football coach and his three children after a tour boat sank near Padar Island in Komodo National Park, officials said on Saturday.
The boat, which was carrying 11 people, went down late on Friday after suffering engine failure during a trip from Komodo Island to Padar Island, according to the Maumere Search and Rescue Office.
Those on board included a family of six, four crew members and a local tour guide. Three passengers were rescued by a passing vessel, while four others were later found by search and rescue teams.
The survivors include the Spanish mother and one daughter. The father, identified as Fernando Martín, a coach with Spanish football club Valencia CF, and his three other children remain missing.
Valencia confirmed in a statement that Martín, who worked with the club’s women’s reserve team, and his children were among those involved in the incident. Real Madrid also issued a message of condolence.
Search operations were suspended on Saturday evening due to poor weather conditions and limited visibility, officials said. Strong waves and darkness hampered rescue efforts in the area.
“Our teams searched the northern waters of Padar Island until dusk,” said Fathur Rahman, head of the Maumere Search and Rescue Office. “The operation will resume early Sunday.”
The search involves inflatable rescue boats, a navy vessel equipped for diving operations, and assistance from local fishermen. Debris believed to be from the sunken boat has been found within a five-nautical-mile radius of the site.
Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a popular tourist destination known for its dramatic landscapes, diving spots and Komodo dragons. It attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Indonesia, made up of more than 17,000 islands, relies heavily on sea transport. Marine accidents are relatively common, often linked to weather conditions, overcrowding and safety issues.
