Search for Missing Singaporean Hikers on Mount Dukono Hampered by Volcanic Activity
Rescue operations on Indonesia’s Halmahera Island have reached a critical juncture following the May 8 eruption of Mount Dukono. While authorities have recovered the body of one Indonesian hiker, the evacuation of two missing Singaporean nationals remains stalled due to extreme terrain and ongoing volcanic escalation.
Recovery of Indonesian Hiker
On May 9, rescue teams recovered the body of a female Indonesian hiker. According to Iwan Ramdani, head of the Ternate search and rescue office, the victim was found buried under volcanic ash approximately 600 meters from the crater, in an area situated very close to the center of the volcano’s activity.
Status of Missing Singaporean Hikers
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has pinpointed the probable location of the two missing Singaporean hikers. Preliminary information indicates they are located between 20 and 30 meters from the rim of the main crater.
Despite knowing the approximate location, rescuers have been unable to reach the hikers. The BNPB cited “extreme terrain and increasing volcanic activity” as the primary barriers preventing an immediate evacuation. Officials emphasized that the recovery effort requires careful planning and specific evacuation strategies to ensure the safety of personnel amid the possibility of further volcanic escalation.
Operational Challenges and Safety Protocols
The search operation is facing multifaceted challenges, including unpredictable weather and hazardous geological conditions. Budiman Djoma, head of Mamuya village near the volcano, noted that search efforts were briefly suspended following heavy rainfall around the crater area.
To mitigate risk, all search personnel are operating under strict guidelines provided by the Mount Dukono Volcano Observation Post. The BNPB has mandated that all teams move cautiously and adhere strictly to the observation post’s recommendations to avoid further casualties.
- Incident Date: Eruption occurred on May 8.
- Casualties: One Indonesian female hiker recovered; two Singaporeans remain missing.
- Current Location: Missing hikers are believed to be 20m to 30m from the main crater rim.
- Primary Obstacles: Volcanic activity, extreme terrain and heavy rain.
- Lead Agencies: National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) and the Ternate search and rescue office.
Looking Ahead
The focus of the operation remains the crater area, though the window for a successful recovery depends heavily on the stability of the volcano. Indonesian authorities continue to coordinate with the Volcano Observation Post to determine the safest possible moment to attempt the evacuation of the remaining hikers.