Two crew members died after a suspected chemical cargo leak triggered a fire aboard the Indonesian landing craft Legenda Nusantara 699 in waters off Kabaena, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. The vessel was sailing from Jakarta to Morowali carrying heavy equipment and chemical cargo when the incident occurred on September 1.

According to preliminary reports, the vessel encountered waves from the side that caused its cargo to shift. Authorities believe the movement damaged an Intermediate Bulk Container carrying chemicals, resulting in a leak that produced thick smoke and eventually started a fire aboard the vessel.

All 13 crew members were evacuated from the vessel. Two crew members, identified by their positions as the second officer and an oiler, died, while four others required intensive medical treatment and seven were reported safe. Reports indicated that severe chemical exposure was suspected in connection with the casualties, although authorities are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the deaths.

Following the fire, Legenda Nusantara 699 was reported to have sunk, while some of its chemical cargo spilled into the surrounding waters. Indonesia’s Directorate General of Sea Transportation is coordinating with relevant agencies to address the environmental impact of the spill while authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire and fatalities.