Manado. A passenger ferry caught fire off the coast of North Sulawesi on Sunday, prompting many passengers to jump into the sea to escape the flames. Amateur videos and photographs captured the chaotic scene, but authorities have yet to release an official casualty report.

The fire broke out aboard the Barcelona ferry at around 12:00 p.m. near Talisei Island, about 60 kilometers from the provincial capital, Manado, according to the North Sulawesi Search and Rescue (SAR) Agency. Several passengers were rescued and evacuated to nearby Ganga Island, SAR spokesperson Nuriadin Gumeleng said.

“Our operation is currently focused on locating and rescuing any remaining passengers who may still be aboard the vessel,” Nuriadin told reporters by phone from the rescue ship Bima Sena.

At least one fatality -- a woman -- has been confirmed, according to local reports. The full passenger manifest has not yet been made public.

The Barcelona serves one of the province’s busiest maritime routes, connecting Manado with surrounding islands including Talaud and Tahuna.

State-owned port operator Pelindo announced that an emergency shelter has been set up at Manado Port to provide medical care and other assistance to survivors.

The incident came 16 days after another passenger ferry sank in the Bali Strait, leaving about half of its passengers and crew members dead or missing.

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