A joint search and rescue (SAR) team has recovered the bodies of two Singaporean climbers who went missing following the eruption of Mount Dukono in the North Halmahera district of North Maluku.
The discovery on Sunday marks the official closure of the SAR operation, as all missing persons have now been located. The victims were found huddled together and pinned under a large boulder.
Details of the Recovery Operation
Ternate SAR Office Head Iwan Ramdani stated that the victims were located at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Indonesia Time (WIT). The recovery site was at coordinates 1°42’9.90″N / 127°52’48.50″E, approximately 13 meters north of the location where an emergency signal was first detected.
The recovery process was conducted across high-risk terrain during heavy rain. The joint SAR team transported the bodies from the crater rim of Mount Dukono to the main command post in Mamuya Village.
Timeline of the Incident
The operation began after the National Search and Rescue Agency’s Command Center picked up a signal at coordinates 1°42’13.7″N 127°52’50.2″E. The Mamuya Village Head confirmed that several climbers had been injured during the eruption and requested SAR assistance for evacuation.
Prior to the discovery of the Singaporean nationals, the SAR team recovered the body of an Indonesian climber on Saturday. The body bags of the two Singaporeans arrived at the Mamuya Village command post at 5:43 p.m. WIT on Sunday.
Next Steps and Implications
The victims have been transported to the Tobelo Regional Public Hospital (RSUD) where autopsies are expected to be performed. This process may provide further clarity on the exact cause of death.
Given the high-risk nature of the terrain and the ongoing volcanic activity, authorities may continue to monitor the area to ensure the safety of any remaining personnel or future visitors. The closure of the SAR operation suggests that the immediate rescue phase has concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly were the Singaporean climbers found?
They were found at coordinates 1°42’9.90″N / 127°52’48.50″E, roughly 13 meters north of where the emergency signal was first picked up, pinned under a large boulder.
How many people died in the eruption?
The source mentions the recovery of two Singaporean climbers and one Indonesian climber.
What challenges did the rescue team face?
The joint SAR team had to operate in heavy rain, navigate high-risk terrain, and manage the ongoing threat of volcanic activity.
Do you believe satellite messaging devices should be mandatory for all climbers in high-risk volcanic zones?
