Search for 7 Indonesians buried by landslides in Central Java continues

By Berk Kutay Gokmen

ISTANBUL (AA) – Hundreds of rescue workers continued their search for seven people buried alive by landslides in Indonesia for the fourth day on Thursday.

At least 20 people were killed in landslides caused by heavy rain in the Central Java region on Monday.

The landslide hit Petungkriyono district in Pekalongan Regency, while the rescue operations focused on Kasimpar village, which is the hardest-hit area, according to the daily Jakarta Post.

Some 500 rescue workers, military personnel, and local volunteers have been divided into various teams to search for victims buried under the mud, rubble, and rocks.

Rescue personnel had to walk about 4 kilometers to reach the site due to difficult terrain and blocked roads, and they were unable to bring in heavy machinery because of broken bridges, said the daily.

Moreover, the rescue operation was also hindered by heavy rain and persistent fog that continued to cover the area.