9-7-2024 (JAKARTA) A devastating landslide triggered by heavy rainfall has claimed at least 12 lives and left 18 people missing at an illegal gold mine in Indonesia’s Sulawesi island. The tragedy, which unfolded on Sunday morning in the Sumawa district of Gorontalo province, has sparked a large-scale rescue operation amidst challenging conditions.
Heriyanto, the head of the local rescue agency (Basarnas), confirmed that the victims included both miners and residents living in proximity to the unlawful mining operation. As of Monday, five survivors had been successfully evacuated from the site, while search efforts for the missing individuals continued with increasing urgency.
“We have mobilised a team of 164 personnel, comprising members of the national rescue team, police, and military, to locate those still unaccounted for,” Heriyanto stated. However, the rescue mission faces significant obstacles, with the landslide site situated approximately 20 kilometres from the nearest access point. Thick mud and persistent rainfall have further complicated the rescuers’ progress.
Despite these challenges, authorities remain determined to intensify their efforts. “We are planning to deploy an excavator as soon as conditions permit,” Heriyanto added, highlighting the team’s commitment to exploring all available options.
The scale of destruction became apparent through photographs shared by the rescue agency, revealing houses flattened by the force of the landslide. Indonesia’s disaster agency (BNPB) reported that the calamity had caused extensive damage to several dwellings and a bridge in the affected village.
In light of the ongoing weather conditions, BNPB has issued warnings to residents in Gorontalo province, cautioning that rain is expected to continue throughout Monday and Tuesday. The agency urged locals to remain vigilant and prepared for potential further disasters.
This recent tragedy adds to a series of weather-related incidents that have plagued Indonesia in recent months. In April, a landslide in South Sulawesi claimed at least 18 lives, while torrential rains in May led to flash floods and mudslides in West Sumatra province, resulting in over 50 fatalities.
