Bodies of Missing Climbers Found on Kurumdy Peak
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bodies believed to be those of missing climbers were found near an avalanche site on Kurumdy Peak.
- Personal belongings of the climbers were discovered nearby, suggesting they were roped together when the incident occurred.
- The search operation faced challenges due to adverse weather, and the bodies await final identification before being brought down.
Rescuers have discovered bodies on Kurumdy Peak, presumed to be those of the three missing climbers, according to Alexander Smirnov, head of the search operation. The discovery was made on August 16, with drone footage revealing the bodies near an avalanche site.
Personal belongings belonging to the climbers were found in the vicinity, indicating they were likely roped together at the time of the incident. Smirnov stated on Facebook that while identification is highly probable, final confirmation will occur after the bodies are recovered. Families have been notified, but names will not be released until then.
Evidence suggests a fresh avalanche breakaway zone at approximately 5,400 meters on the ridge. Calculated fall lines converge on this area, with a trail leading down to the discovery site. The exact cause of the accident remains unclear.
The search operation has been hampered by deteriorating weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and poor visibility, complicating efforts to recover the climbers. The rescue camp is being dismantled, and rescuers are assessing risks from rockfall and snow before attempting to bring the bodies down. Belarusian citizens Maxim Polyansky and Nikolai Sviridov, and Sergei Rubtsov from Lithuania, were last heard from on August 4 after successfully summiting Kurumdy Peak on August 2.
It is highly likely that these are members of the group. Final identification is possible only after the descent.
Originally published by CNN Indonesia in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.