A dramatic evacuation process is being carried out by a joint SAR team for a hiker named Cakra (18) who fell into a ravine in the Mount Semeru area, East Java, on Friday (5/6/2026). The victim was reported to have suffered a dislocated right ankle after recklessly embarking on a hike via an illegal route since May 30, 2026.
Head of the Surabaya SAR Office, Nanang Sigit, explained that the extremely steep terrain with a ravine depth reaching 374 meters forced the team to use the slope rescue method. This rope technique was chosen to ensure the safety of both the victim and the rescue team, given the absence of safe footing at the location.
Previously, rescuers required an eight-hour trek on foot to reach the victim's coordinates. Weather conditions frequently covered in thick fog and extreme terrain had hindered the operation's progress. After the victim's leg was splinted to prevent further injury, the team began pulling him up gradually using a flexible stretcher toward a safer assembly point.
The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Center (BBTNBTS) emphasized that climbing activities to the summit of Semeru are currently still completely closed due to volcanic activity status being at Level III (Alert). Bambang Suryono, Head of Administrative Division at BBTNBTS, stated that they will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and strengthen oversight of illegal access, while reminding that violators of conservation area rules can face severe sanctions, including a five-year blacklist.
This reckless hiking phenomenon serves as a stark reminder for outdoor enthusiasts. Although often driven by a desire for extreme challenges or simply following trends, ignoring safety rules not only endangers oneself but also places a heavy risk burden on SAR teams who must risk their lives in every rescue operation.
