Indonesia Landslide Death Toll Climbs to 17, 45 Missing

Landslide Strikes Indonesia, Killing 17 and Leaving 45 Missing

Death toll rises to 17 in Indonesia landslide, 45 others missing after heavy rains trigger disaster near illegal gold mine on Sulawesi island.

At least 17 people have died and 45 others are missing after a landslide struck a rural community in Indonesia's Gorontalo province on Saturday, July 6. The disaster occurred in the Bone Bolango area of Sulawesi island, where heavy rains caused a landslide near an illegal gold mine.

The landslide is believed to have been triggered by persistent downpours in the area, which is known for its mineral-rich soil and unlicensed mining activities. Many residents in the area engage in gold mining without proper safety precautions, often at abandoned sites in search of leftover gold ore.

According to the local search chief, five survivors have been rescued with injuries ranging from minor to serious, while eight bodies have been recovered. However, 19 people are still unaccounted for, and rescue efforts are ongoing. The difficult terrain and collapsed bridges in the area have made it challenging for rescuers to access the location, requiring them to travel on foot.

A total of 180 people, including troops and police officials, have been mobilized for the rescue effort. The local search chief stated that three more victims are still unaccounted for, and the search operation is ongoing.

Landslides are common in Indonesia during the rainy season, which typically runs from November to April. However, the recent disaster occurred in July, which is usually a dry month with minimal rainfall. Despite this, flooding and landslides in South Sulawesi province in May resulted in at least 15 fatalities, while another disaster in the same province in April claimed 20 lives.