Indonesia’s Sulawesi island faces tragedy as heavy rains triggered a devastating landslide near an illegal gold mine, claiming at least 11 lives with 19 individuals still unaccounted for. The incident occurred in Bone Bolango district, Gorontalo province, highlighting the dangers associated with unlicensed mining activities in the region.
The landslide struck a remote village following intense rainfall on Saturday, resulting in fatalities and injuries among those involved in illegal gold mine operations. Local search and rescue efforts led by Heriyanto, head of the agency, have confirmed the recovery of eight bodies, with five survivors suffering from varying degrees of injury.
Rescue operations are challenged by collapsed bridges and rugged terrain, necessitating deployment of over 180 personnel, including police and military forces. The difficult conditions have forced rescuers to travel on foot to reach the disaster site.
Indonesia, known for its mineral wealth, frequently experiences landslides during the rainy season from November to April. However, the occurrence of heavy rains in July, typically a dry period, underscores the unusual nature of the current disaster.
Earlier this year, similar incidents in South Sulawesi province claimed lives and caused significant damage, illustrating the recurring threat posed by natural disasters in the region.
The tragic landslide near an illegal gold mine in Indonesia’s Gorontalo province serves as a stark reminder of the hazards associated with unauthorized mining activities and the country’s susceptibility to seasonal natural disasters. As rescue efforts continue amidst challenging conditions, authorities are focused on providing support to affected communities and preventing future incidents.
