Eight people died when a speedboat capsized off the eastern coast of Jambi province, Indonesia, Antara News Agency reported Saturday.

The ill-fated speedboat carried 29 passengers and three crew members. The surviving people had returned to their homes.

The speedboat, with a capacity of 20 passengers, sank after being smashed by huge waves on Wednesday on its way to a coastal village in Mendahara.

"The accident took place on Wednesday, but the report only reached me today (Friday)," Jambi port administrator Dirmansyah was quoted by Antara as saying.

The police has arrested the boat's owner and captain for investigation, the report said.

The speedboat is a common means of transportation in Jambi's eastern coastal area. (Xinhua)