Prabowo Subianto Orders Expedited Evacuation Following Earthquake in North Sulawesi and North Maluku
Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto has taken decisive action following a significant earthquake that affected the regions of North Sulawesi and North Maluku. The event, a 7.6 magnitude quake, occurred on April 2, 2026, prompting immediate response measures to ensure the safety of those in affected areas.
Immediate Response and Evacuation Efforts
Upon receiving reports from the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), President Prabowo ordered the swift mobilization of emergency response teams. The teams, consisting of BNPB personnel, the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian Police (Polri) and local government officials, are actively conducting on-site inspections and evacuating residents from Bitung City, Ternate City, and Batang Dua Island.
Coordination and Safety Measures
The government’s response has been marked by intensive coordination with local authorities, including North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda and North Sulawesi Governor Yulius Selvanus Komaling. This coordinated effort aims to ensure the effective evacuation of residents and to prevent them from returning to potentially unsafe structures until they are officially declared secure.
Public Warnings and Vigilance
In addition to evacuation efforts, the government has issued strong warnings to the public, urging citizens in affected areas to remain vigilant. Residents are advised not to return to damaged buildings until safety inspections have been completed.
Key Takeaways
- President Prabowo Subianto has ordered expedited evacuation measures following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in North Sulawesi and North Maluku.
- Emergency response teams from BNPB, TNI, Polri, and local governments are on the ground, assessing and evacuating affected areas.
- Intensive coordination with local authorities is ongoing to facilitate safe and efficient evacuations.
- The government has issued warnings advising residents not to return to potentially unsafe structures.
Looking Ahead
As the situation continues to develop, the Indonesian government remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens and supporting post-disaster recovery efforts. Continuous monitoring and further measures will be implemented as needed to address the aftermath of the earthquake.
Sources:
- Prabowo Calls for Evacuations Following M7.6 Earthquake in Ternate-Bitung
- President Prabowo orders quick responses to North Sulawesi quake
- Prabowo Orders Expedited Evacuation for Quake-Hit Bitung and Batang Dua
- Govt urges vigilance after deadly quake in North Sulawesi
- Key Facts About the North Sulawesi-North Maluku Earthquake