Volcanic Eruption in Indonesia Triggers Casualties, Emergency Search Operation Underway

Addis Ababa, May 8, 2026 (FMC) – A volcanic eruption on Indonesia’s Mount Dukono has left hikers dead and others missing, prompting an ongoing emergency search and rescue operation under difficult terrain and continuing volcanic activity.

The eruption occurred early Friday on Halmahera Island in North Maluku province, sending a thick ash plume into the atmosphere and forcing emergency teams to respond rapidly to the affected area, according to several reports.

Rescue authorities confirmed that several hikers were caught in the eruption while on the volcano, despite existing warnings linked to heightened volcanic activity in the region. Initial reports indicate that at least three people have died, while search operations continue for others who remain unaccounted for.

Emergency response teams have been deployed to the mountainous area to evacuate survivors and recover those still missing. However, rescue efforts are being hampered by unstable conditions, including ash fall and difficult access routes on the volcano’s slopes.

Mount Dukono is among Indonesia’s most active volcanoes and has experienced repeated seismic activity in recent months. The country sits along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a zone known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Authorities say search and recovery operations will continue as conditions allow, while further assessments are expected to clarify the total number of casualties and the circumstances surrounding the incident.