A hiker from Palembang, Yudha Saputra, was finally found safe after being reported missing in the Mount Dempo area, Pagar Alam City, South Sumatra. Yudha was previously known to have gone hiking with four companions on Wednesday (8/7/2026), but became separated from the group while on the hiking trail.
Panic broke out when Yudha failed to return to the assembly point. The family received a final communication from him around 9:00 PM WIB on the same day. Over the phone, Yudha stated he was trapped alone in freezing temperatures before the connection was cut off, presumably due to a drained phone battery.
In response to the report, the Dempo Volcano Registration Center Team (Brigade) immediately conducted an intensive search and sweep operation. Their efforts paid off on Thursday (9/7/2026). Yudha was found by the rescue team on the Rimau trail, a route that is no longer open to the public and is usually reserved specifically for evacuation processes.
According to field reports from the team, Yudha reportedly got lost after succumbing to auditory illusions. He admitted to following what he thought were the voices of his companions, which instead led him far into an unfamiliar peak area. Due to severe exhaustion, volunteer team members had to carry him on a stretcher to safety.
The head of the Brigade, Dian Saputra, confirmed the successful evacuation. The mountain management also urged all hiking communities to always prioritize safety, ensure adequate equipment, and maintain tight coordination so as not to separate from the group while navigating difficult mountain terrain.
