Two Singaporean Nationals Found Embracing, Crushed by Rocks After Mount Dukono Eruption
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A joint SAR team found the last two missing victims of the Mount Dukono eruption in Halmahera, North Maluku, Indonesia.
- The two deceased were identified as Singaporean nationals, bringing the total number of fatalities to three.
- The SAR operation has been officially closed, with 15 others found alive.
The tragic eruption of Mount Dukono has claimed the lives of three individuals, including two Singaporean nationals. While the immediate focus was on the search and rescue operation, the discovery of the victims, found embracing each other and crushed by large rocks, adds a poignant layer to the tragedy. The Indonesian National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) confirmed the closure of the SAR operation after all missing persons were accounted for. This event serves as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of active volcanoes like Dukono, which frequently erupt and pose risks to nearby communities and visitors. The swift response from the SAR teams, despite facing challenges due to the significant volcanic material burying the victims, highlights their dedication. The safe rescue of 15 other individuals, including both Indonesian citizens and Singaporean tourists, offers a glimmer of hope amidst the loss. The incident underscores the importance of preparedness and timely response in disaster-prone areas, especially when international visitors are involved.
Before, the joint SAR team had found one victim with the initials E (female) an Indonesian citizen (WNI) in a deceased condition. With the discovery of the other two victims, all victims who were previously declared missing have been found.
Originally published by CNN Indonesia in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.