KARANGASEM – A Russian national, Sergei Eliseev (36), has been reported missing after going on a solo fishing trip in the waters off Amed, Abang District, Karangasem Regency, Bali. Authorities suspect he may have fallen overboard from his jukung (traditional fishing boat).
According to I Gusti Ngurah Eka Wiadnyana, Coordinator of the Karangasem Search and Rescue Post (Basarnas), Eliseev had gone fishing on Wednesday (April 16), but failed to return the next day. His boat was later found adrift and unmanned near Seraya Timur Village.
“Eliseev reportedly sent a video to a friend showing himself on the boat on Wednesday night, but no further contact was made,” Wiadnyana stated.
Attempts to reach him were unsuccessful, raising concerns. The discovery of his empty jukung confirmed suspicions that something had gone wrong.
An initial assessment suggests that Eliseev may have fallen into the sea during the night while fishing alone. The sea conditions remain under close monitoring, and no direct witnesses have yet come forward.
In response, Basarnas deployed 20 personnel along with a joint team to launch a search operation, focusing on the coastal areas between Amed and Seraya on Friday.
Authorities are urging local fishermen and anyone in the area to report any information that may assist the ongoing search.
The incident highlights the risks associated with solo marine activities, especially at night, and the importance of safety protocols.