Search launched for Indonesian ship with 240 aboard

Rescuers are searching the Java Sea for Virgo Transport 8. It lost radio contact with 240 people aboard.

A search began on Sunday for an Indonesian ship that lost radio contact. The Virgo Transport 8 was carrying 240 people between East Java and South Kalimantan.

The ship was last seen about 148 kilometres from Banjarmasin port in the Java Sea. The Search and Rescue Office in Banjarmasin started the operation after getting a report of lost contact.

No casualties have been reported. The ship was heading to Banjarmasin from Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city.

240: People aboard
Virgo Transport 8: Ship name
148 kilometres from Banjarmasin: Last known distance
Sunday: Search began

Why it mattersA major search and rescue operation is underway for 240 people at sea.

AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but Australian media is monitoring the rescue operation in Indonesia.

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