Tanker Catches Fire in Java Sea, 16 Rescued; Pertamina Vessel Assists

The tanker MT Mauhau, owned by PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, a subsidiary of the state-owned oil and gas company PT Pertamina (Persero), assisted in the search and rescue operations for the 'Virgo Transport 8' which reportedly sank in the waters of the Java Sea on Sunday (13/9/2026). As of the latest report, 16 people were successfully evacuated to the MT Mauhau, including the captain of the KMP Virgo Transport 08. The MT Mauhau was sailing from Banjarmasin to Tuban at the time. The captain and crew received information about the accident via VHF radio. Upon learning of a sinking vessel in its sailing path, the captain and crew of the MT Mauhau immediately proceeded to the location to assist in the evacuation process. Of the 16 victims successfully rescued, one sustained a leg injury and received initial treatment from the crew of the MT Mauhau. VP Corporate Communication of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, Kitty Andhora, stated that the rapid response from the MT Mauhau crew is a form of the company's care and commitment to safety, especially during emergencies in its operational and shipping areas. "As soon as we received information about the sinking ship, the Captain and crew of MT Mauhau immediately took steps to assist in the rescue process. The safety of life is the top priority, and we are grateful that 16 victims have been successfully evacuated to the ship so far," Kitty said in a written statement on Sunday (13/9/2026). In the rescue process, MT Mauhau also coordinated with Basarnas Banjarmasin. The Basarnas team moved to the location to continue the search for and evacuation of other victims. Several other ships also assisted in the rescue process, including TB TCP 205 and KMP Haidar. Pertamina Patra Niaga continues to coordinate with related parties while monitoring the progress of the evacuation operation. The victims who are already on board the MT Mauhau also received initial treatment while awaiting further evacuation. The ship's crew ensured that the basic needs of the victims were met, including food and drinks, and provided assistance according to their respective conditions. "We continue to coordinate with Basarnas and all involved parties. Our focus right now is to ensure that the evacuated victims receive proper treatment and to support the search process for other victims," Kitty concluded. The MT Mauhau is a vessel owned by Pertamina Patra Niaga, which was on a journey to Tuban from Banjarmasin at the time of the incident. Pertamina Patra Niaga stated that maritime safety and concern for fellow human beings are part of the company's commitment. Ship crews and workers are encouraged to provide the best response when facing emergencies at sea. Information Source: Liputan6