Jakarta, Sept. 23 -- The Indonesian government will launch a thorough investigation into the deadly sinking of the Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea once search and rescue operations conclude, Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said on Wednesday.

"For me, the most important thing is evacuation first. Evacuation, then investigation ... as the causes of every accident differ," Dudy said in Jakarta.

He explained that the investigation will examine key operational aspects, including cargo securing procedures, the vessel's seaworthiness, crew readiness, and the accuracy of the official passenger manifest.

Dudy noted that the findings will serve as a basis for evaluating national maritime safety standards and addressing implementation ...