Mount Dukono Eruption Kills Three Hikers on Indonesian Island
A volcanic eruption on Indonesia's Mount Dukono, located on North Maluku island, has resulted in three deaths. The volcano ejected a column of ash an estimated 10km (six miles) into the atmosphere.
The deceased include two Singaporean nationals and one Indonesian resident from Ternate. They were part of a 20-person hiking group, comprising Singaporeans and Indonesians, who had ascended the mountain in defiance of established safety restrictions.
The eruption, occurring at 07:41 local time (22:41 GMT Thursday), affected multiple groups on early morning hikes. Rescuers successfully located and evacuated the remaining members of the primary hiking party, with some requiring hospital treatment for injuries.
Police chief Erlichson Pasaribu noted that retrieval of the bodies, situated at higher elevations, has been impeded by continuous eruptions, challenging terrain, and powerful blasts from the volcano.
Mount Dukono has recorded over 200 eruptions since March of the previous year. Indonesian authorities confirmed that warnings against climbing the mountain, citing safety hazards, were widely disseminated through social media and on banners at trail access points. Initial discussions among officials suggest “possible negligence by tourism operators or individuals” who proceeded with the climb despite these explicit warnings.
The Volcanological Survey of Indonesia currently places Mount Dukono at alert level two on its four-tier system, indicating heightened activity and necessitating caution. Since December 2024, the agency has advised against all activities within a 4km radius of the main crater due to the risk of ejected rocks, ash, and lava.
