Hiker Goes Missing on Kawah Ijen Trail in Banyuwangi

A hiker has been reported missing on the Kawah Ijen crater trail in Licin District, Banyuwangi Regency, on Wednesday afternoon (18 February). A search and rescue team has been dispatched to locate him.

Head of the Banyuwangi Search and Rescue Office, I Made Oka Astawa, said the missing person report was received by his office at 20:05 local time.

“The victim has been identified as Muhammad Dzikri Maulana (Lakis), a resident of Tamansari Village, Licin District,” Oka said in a statement on Wednesday evening.

Oka explained that the victim had set out to climb with four companions at 02:00 local time. Upon reaching the summit, the victim became separated from the group and has not returned nor been found since.

“Based on the report received, the incident is estimated to have occurred at approximately 08:30 local time on the Kawah Ijen hiking trail at coordinates 8°3’41.68”S 114°14’45.83”E,” he said.

Acting on a request for assistance from the Mount Ijen Task Force, a rescue team from the Banyuwangi Search and Rescue Office departed for the incident location at 20:24 local time and arrived at the last known position at 21:54 local time.

“The SAR operation involves seven rescue personnel, supported by elements from the Banyuwangi Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Licin Sector Police, Licin Military District Command, the Ijen Mountain Natural Resources Conservation Agency (KSDA), Banyuwangi SAR Independent, and local community members, equipped with a Type II rescue vehicle, vertical rescue equipment, medical supplies, and communication devices,” he said.

Oka stated that the joint SAR team would conduct a thorough search effort whilst maintaining due regard for personnel safety.

“We have dispatched a team to the location and will carry out an intensive search by combing the hiking trail and suspected points. We urge all hikers to always stay with their group and comply with safety procedures when undertaking climbs,” he concluded.