UPDATE 2 - Indonesia landslide death toll climbs to 25 as dozens still missing

UPDATE WITH NEW DEATH TOLL; CHANGES HEADLINE, LEDE

By Berk Kutay Gokmen and Islamuddin Sajid

ISTANBUL / ISLAMABAD (AA) - The death toll from a landslide in Indonesia rose to 25 on Sunday as search and rescue operations continued for dozens of people who are reported missing in West Java, local media reported.

Indonesian broadcaster Kompas TV reported that the search and rescue personnel have recovered a total of 25 bodies from the scene, with 11 of the victims identified.

Earlier, West Java police spokesman Senior Commissioner Hendra Rochmawan said that the death toll had risen after five more bodies were recovered from the site.

The landslide struck a village in West Bandung regency on Saturday, with dozens of homes reportedly buried under mud and debris.

According to the state-run Antara News Agency, around 80 people are still missing, while the landslide affected 30 houses and displaced 300 to 400 people.

The military said there were reports that 23 soldiers were also among those missing, adding that the information was still being verified.

Search and rescue teams are continuing efforts in the affected area, which is marked by difficult terrain, while weather forecasts warn of moderate to very heavy rainfall in the coming days, complicating operations.

Authorities in Central Java have extended an emergency response status due to ongoing floods and landslides. The second phase of the emergency period will run from Jan. 24 to Feb. 6 to ensure continued response and recovery efforts.