Horror as ferry carrying 280 people erupts in flames with passengers jumping into the sea

A ferry carrying some 280 passengers has erupted into a massive blaze that has seen passengers jump overboard into the sea. Flames consumed the KM Barcelona VA vessel off the coast of Indonesia on Sunday.

The fire broke out at around 1.30pm local time, according to reports. Mayhem erupted onboard the vessel when thick black smoke began billowing from the lower decks. Shocking footage showed passengers jumping into the water, many of them wearing bright orange life jackets, as the fire tore through the ship.

Video footage caputred the panicked screams from passengers as the carnage unfolded.

One chilling broadcast came via Facebook Live from a passenger named Abdul Rahmad Agu, whose video captured the heart-stopping scenes as they happened.

Abdul said in the video: "Help, the KM Barcelona V is on fire. There are still many people on board. We are burning at sea... we need help... fast...".

He could be heard trying to calm other passengers who had also plunged themselves into the water.

The livestream lasted for approximately 28 minutes, meaning people waited in the water for at least half an hour before they were rescued.

As it stands, authorities have not confirmed any casualties as the cause of the fire remains unknown.

A search and rescue post has been set up at the nearby Likupang Port. Loved ones of those onboard have been urged to stay calm and await official updates.

The head of the Manado Search and Rescue Office, George Leo Mercy Randang, said: "More information will follow. We hope all passengers can be rescued first."