An Indonesian island with a pivotal, evolving story
The KM Nurul Salsa, carrying 78 passengers and crew, experienced engine failure and sank off Sulawesi, Indonesia. Five survivors have been found clinging to flotation devices and rescued, while at least one person is confirmed dead. Search efforts continue with multiple ships, a reconnaissance aircraft and a helicopter deployed.
A ferry fire off Madura Island has left dozens missing as rescue teams work to evacuate passengers. Initial figures varied, with official counts evolving as authorities confirm rescues and fatalities; background on the ship and route is provided.
New analyses of bones from Sulawesi suggest foragers 7,600–25,000 years ago sucked betel nuts, with arecoline traces in teeth. This indicates early drug use predates farming and reshapes views on psychoactive history.