First bodies found on sunken ferry
DIVERS yesterday retrieved the first bodies from the submerged South Korean ferry that capsized nearly four days ago, marking a grim new stage in the search and recovery process.
“Divers broke through the window of a passenger cabin just before midnight and pulled out three bodies,” a coastguard official said.
All three were wearing lifejackets, the official added.
The confirmed death toll from the disaster now stands at 36, with 266 people still unaccounted for.
Investigators arrested the ferry’s captain, Lee Joon-Seok, and two of his crew earlier yesterday.
The three have been criticised for abandoning hundreds of passengers still trapped in the ferry, as they made their own escape.
Lee was charged with negligence and failing to secure the safety of passengers in violation of maritime law.
Data from the Maritime Ministry showed the vessel made a sharp turn just before sending its first distress signal.
Some experts believe the turn could have dislodged the heavy cargo — including more than 150 vehicles — and destabilised the vessel.
The ship was being steered by a 55-year-old helmsman identified by his surname Jo, under the supervision of the female third officer. — AFP