Indonesia, Sept. 17 -- The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) is preparing a salvage operation supported by expert teams from Hong Kong and the United States to expand search options for victims of the Virgo Transport 8 ferry accident in the Java Sea.

Basarnas Head Mohammad Syafii stated on Wednesday, Sept. 16, that foreign and domestic experts will assess the vessel's condition to determine operational steps and equipment requirements prior to the salvage.

He explained that salvage operations will be conducted to manage the capsized vessel, secure its position, and facilitate interior search and recovery operations.

The operation may involve righting the vessel, searching its interior for victims, evacuating them, and later ...