News - Tragedy Strikes Indonesian Marine Camp in West Java Landslide

BANDUNG, Indonesia -- A catastrophic landslide swept through Pasir Langu village on the slopes of Mount Burangrang, West Java, leaving devastation in its wake. Among the 80 people missing are 19 members of Indonesia's elite marine unit, trapped beneath a mountain of mud and debris after a relentless predawn slide on Saturday. The landslide, triggered by two nights of torrential rainfall, not only claimed lives but also swallowed the marines' training camp and around 34 nearby houses. Efforts to rescue those trapped have surged in scale, with personnel numbers escalating from 500 to a formidable 2,100. These dedicated teams, armed with nothing but their hands, water pumps, drones, and excavators, grapple with the arduous task of sifting through thick mud and uprooted trees. The expanse of destruction stretches over 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), with mud layers reaching depths of up to 8 meters (26 feet) in places, according to Yudhi Bramantyo, the National Search and Rescue Agency's operation director. Tragically, 17 fatalities have been confirmed so far, with identifications in progress for six of these victims. Among those lost are four marines, as reported by navy Chief of Staff Adm. Muhammad Ali. These marines were part of a 23-member squad preparing for a significant deployment to the Indonesia–Papua New Guinea border, underlining the tragedy's far-reaching implications. Ali pointed out the daunting logistical challenges rescue operations face, mentioning the narrow access roads and the instability of the ground, which hinder the use of heavy machinery. Despite these obstacles, search and rescue missions push onward as families and authorities cling to hope for improbable miracles amidst the chaos. The landslide's impact extends beyond human casualties, with about 230 local residents evacuated to temporary government shelters, away from the perilous slopes. This disaster serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks during Indonesia's October to April rainy season, where the combination of mountainous terrain and fertile flood plains heightens vulnerability to such catastrophic natural events. As efforts continue, this harrowing event underscores the resilience and unity of search and rescue teams, while highlighting the critical need for disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions across Indonesia's vast archipelago of more than 17,000 islands.