Climbers saved from forest fire

SALATIGA, Central Java: Search and Rescue (SAR) officers have saved nine hikers and their two guides who were trapped in a raging forest fire on the slopes of Mt. Merbabu.

The fire has already razed some 200 hectares, including pine forest, despite efforts by the authorities and the local people to contain it. Witnesses said the strong wind made the job difficult.

The nine climbers were students from Jakarta and Surakarta.

Police are still investigating the cause of the fire. (har/emb)