Indonesian SAR Team Searches for 3 Hikers After Mount Dukono Eruption; 2 Foreigners Detected Near Crater, 1 Indonesian Unaccounted For

The eruption of Mount Dukono has triggered a critical search and rescue operation for three missing hikers, two of whom are foreign nationals. The Indonesian National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) confirmed that while the hikers' positions were detected, the extreme volcanic activity and treacherous terrain have halted immediate evacuation efforts. This incident underscores the dangers of ignoring official warnings, as the hiking trails had been closed since April 17. BNPB's Abdul Muhari emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines for all active volcanoes, citing others like Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, Mount Marapi, and Mount Semeru. The agency also called for stricter enforcement of the closure, warning of sanctions for violations. The focus remains on the safety of the SAR personnel and the eventual rescue of the missing individuals, highlighting Indonesia's vulnerability to natural disasters and the challenges in managing public access to hazardous areas.

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On the second day of this operation, the team focused the search on the area suspected to be the victims' location. The positions of two foreign nationals were detected at a distance of 20 to 30 meters from the main crater's rim.