South Sulawesi, Indonesia—A passenger boat capsized in rough waters off the coast of South Sulawesi on Sunday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of two passengers. The vessel encountered heavy swells approximately two miles from the shoreline while navigating a routine transit route.

Local fishermen who witnessed the incident alerted the maritime authority immediately. They managed to pull several survivors from the water before official rescue teams arrived on the scene. The weather had shifted rapidly, creating waves that proved too difficult for the small craft to navigate.

Search and rescue teams deployed two boats to scour the area for missing individuals. Divers were sent into the dark water as the current pushed the wreckage further out to sea. The search concluded when teams recovered the final two missing passengers near the overturned hull.

Police are currently questioning the boat operator to determine the cause of the disaster. Initial statements suggest the vessel was carrying more passengers than its safety rating allowed. Officials are now verifying the passenger manifest against the actual number of survivors and victims.

The bodies were transported to a nearby coastal medical center for processing. Family members gathered at the harbor throughout the evening as authorities released the names of those confirmed deceased. The grief on the docks underscored the sudden nature of the loss.

Maritime safety regulations in the region face renewed scrutiny following today's events. Local transport agencies have long warned about the risks of using aging boats during the current monsoon-like season. This incident highlights the friction between the need for transit and the lack of reliable equipment.

Technical experts will examine the vessel for signs of engine failure or structural issues. The boat remains partially submerged, waiting for a salvage crew to retrieve it for further forensic testing. Investigators intend to analyze the hull for any signs of pre-existing damage.

The maritime office has issued a temporary suspension for all small-vessel traffic in the immediate vicinity. Officers will remain on duty to monitor weather reports and enforce the new restrictions. The investigation into the operator's conduct continues as the local community braces for the official report.