Search teams deploy boats, divers, and thermal drones in storm-hit Barelang operation
A late-night leap from Barelang Bridge 1 has sparked a major search and rescue mission in Batam, with 23-year-old Rivaldo Rahul Setiawan still missing despite an all-day hunt involving multiple agencies and advanced equipment.
Midnight Incident Shocks Locals
In the early hours of Monday, 11 August 2025, residents near Barelang Bridge 1 were startled when a man was seen leaping into the waters below. Witness Hmd Adr reported seeing the man, later identified as Rivaldo Rahul Setiawan from Sei Beduk, Batam, standing on the left side of the bridge before plunging toward the sea. His green-and-white Honda Beat motorbike, with keys still in the ignition, was found parked nearby.
Identity Confirmed Through Personal Belongings
Police from Sagulung precinct, led by Iptu Husnul, discovered Rivaldo’s wallet containing his Jamsostek card, medical cards, and ID. A cap hung from the bike’s mirror, and a bottle of alcohol was found on the seat. These items were secured as evidence while officers coordinated with the Marine Police (Polairud) and Basarnas for an immediate search.
Multi-Agency Search Underway
Basarnas Tanjungpinang received the alert at 07:00 WIB and dispatched six rescue personnel from Pos SAR Batam. Equipped with a rubber boat, drone thermal, diving gear, and medical kits, the team arrived by 09:00 WIB. The search was split into three units (SRU):
- SRU 1: Basarnas rubber boat
- SRU 2: RIB Polair Polda Kepri
- SRU 3: KPLP speedboat KP.544
Harsh Weather Slows Efforts
Heavy rain, strong currents, and high winds hampered visibility and movement in the search area. Drone thermal sweeps were conducted to detect any heat signatures, while divers and boat teams scoured beneath and around the bridge. Despite the extensive effort, no trace of Rivaldo was found by 18:30 WIB.
Past Incidents Raise Safety Concerns
Barelang Bridge 1 has been the scene of several similar incidents over the years. Authorities urge residents to remain alert and immediately report any suspicious or distressed individuals in the vicinity to prevent further tragedies.
Search To Resume
Head of Basarnas Tanjungpinang, Fazzli, confirmed that the operation would resume at 07:00 WIB the next day, pending weather conditions. Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the jump, including speaking to witnesses and Rivaldo’s family.
The case underscores the challenges faced by emergency responders when severe weather meets urgent rescue missions. For communities in Batam and nearby Singapore, Barelang Bridge remains a critical link and a recurring site of public safety concerns — a reminder of the importance of vigilance, coordinated response, and mental health awareness in preventing such incidents.
Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Batamnews (2025)
Keywords: Barelang Bridge, Batam, Search And Rescue, Missing Person, Drone Thermal, Basarnas
