Three Dead in Mount Dukono Eruption: Ongoing Rescue Efforts
A tragic event unfolded on Friday when Mount Dukono erupted on a remote island in Indonesia, claiming the lives of three individuals and injuring five others. The hikers involved were in a restricted part of the volcano, even though officials had warned against climbing.
The police reported that around 20 climbers had set out on Thursday to reach the summit of Mount Dukono, which stands at approximately 1,355 meters (4,445 feet). North Halmahera police chief Erlichson Pasaribu stated that the climbers were aware of the dangers but proceeded anyway. “They knew it was off-limits because of the volcano’s high alert status, but many are motivated to climb to share their experiences online,” he explained.
Among the victims are one local resident and two Singaporeans. Rescuers faced challenges in retrieving the victims’ bodies due to ongoing eruptions and rough terrain. The volcano erupted early Friday at 7:41 a.m. local time, sending ash billowing into the sky.
As the rescue teams arrived in response to an emergency signal, they managed to evacuate 17 climbers, which included seven Singaporeans and two Indonesians. Five individuals were reported injured.
Pasaribu mentioned that police intend to interview those who accompanied the hikers. Mount Dukono is known for its frequent eruptions, with the most recent activity being notably strong, as noted by Lana Saria from Indonesia’s Geology Agency.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with hopes to safely recover all hikers caught in the eruption.
