Indonesia landslide death toll climbs to 16 as dozens still missing
Landslide in West Bandung regency buried dozens of homes, according to authorities
ISTANBUL
The death toll from a landslide in Indonesia rose to 16 on Sunday as search and rescue operations continued for dozens of people who are reported missing in West Java, officials said.
West Java police spokesman Senior Commissioner Hendra Rochmawan said that the death toll has risen to 16 after five more bodies were recovered from the site, according to state-run Antara news agency.
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 media, 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.
