JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) A government official in Indonesia says at least nine people are dead after an Indonesian passenger ferry sank in rough water off Sumatra Island.

Rescuers saved more than 230 people aboard the Dumai Express 10.

Nine bodies have bene found, including those of two children.

Police say high waves are making the search and rescue operation difficult. At least nine ships and several fishing boats are searching the sea for any missing passengers.

The local Navy chief says a report from the ship's captain says the vessel sank about 30 minutes after huge waves hit its bow and water started seeping in.

Separately, a second ferry is stranded in nearby waters after running aground. A local police chief says no one was hurt.

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