A group of rescuers searching for victims of a landslide in West Java were themselves buried by a second mudslide, officials have confirmed. The first landslide struck the village of Cihanjuang in Sumedang regency on Saturday afternoon, triggered by torrential rain. As survivors were being evacuated, a second landslide hit the same area three and a half hours later, burying rescue workers and residents alike.
At least 12 people have been confirmed dead, including a six-year-old boy and several members of the rescue team. The national disaster agency reported that 27 people remain missing, while 46 have been rescued alive. The search operation was suspended late Sunday due to adverse weather, but is expected to resume on Monday.
The first landslide occurred at 16:00 local time (09:00 GMT), caused by high rainfall and unstable soil conditions. The second followed at 19:30, while officers were still evacuating victims from the initial disaster, according to disaster agency spokesman Raditya Jati. The head of the local search and rescue agency, Deden Ridwansah, confirmed the numbers of missing and survivors.
Landslides are a frequent and deadly hazard in Indonesia during the rainy season, with deforestation often cited as an exacerbating factor. Last year, thousands were evacuated in Jakarta as the capital was inundated by floods. The latest tragedy highlights the ongoing vulnerability of communities in hilly regions.
