Cilacap, Indonesia—Basarnas launched a full-scale search operation off the southern coast today after a fishing boat went missing in heavy seas. Four crew members remain unaccounted for after their vessel was hit by large, unpredictable waves on the morning of July 7. Family members gathered at the harbor to wait for news.

The boat reportedly lost contact with the shore shortly after dawn. Radio distress signals were faint before cutting out entirely. Other vessels in the area reported wave heights reaching three meters, making it nearly impossible for small craft to remain stable.

Search teams are deploying inflatable boats and a patrol ship to map the last known coordinates of the vessel. Strong underwater currents and persistent winds are hindering the reach of the divers. The search area is being expanded as officials track potential drift patterns.

Harbor masters warned all local fishermen to stay in port until the weather conditions stabilize. The southern coast is known for its treacherous swells, especially during this time of the year. Despite these warnings, the crew had already departed early to catch the morning tide.

Officials remain tight-lipped about the probability of finding the crew alive. They are prioritizing the identification of debris that might lead them to the capsized vessel. Floating gear identified as belonging to the missing boat has been found roughly five miles offshore.

The community in Cilacap is bracing for the worst. Local leaders are organizing prayer vigils while volunteers assist in scanning the shoreline for any signs of the missing men. The emotional toll on the small fishing village is already becoming apparent.

Rescue operations will continue until nightfall, at which point the maritime authorities will reassess the safety of the search crews. Drones equipped with infrared cameras have been deployed to cover sectors that boats cannot safely reach. The wind shows no sign of dying down.

The status of the mission remains critical as the hours slip away. Basarnas continues to coordinate with nearby ships to widen the net. Families hold onto the hope that the boat managed to stay afloat, but the current state of the sea says otherwise.