One Flood Victim in Banjar, Buleleng Remains Unfound as Search Operations Conclude
Search and rescue operations targeting a flash flood victim in Banjar Village, Banjar District, Buleleng Regency, Bali, have been officially concluded. Putu Wini Lestari, 17, has not been found despite seven days of search operations.
Kadek Donny Indrawan, coordinator of Buleleng SAR Post, explained that the combined SAR team had undertaken various efforts to locate the victim. In accordance with established procedures, SAR operations were suspended on the seventh day of the search on Thursday (12 March 2026).
“Today marks the seventh day of searching. From the first day, we commenced search efforts from the night of the incident, continuing through the second day through to the seventh day,” said Donny on Thursday.
Donny explained that the combined SAR team had combed through numerous locations suspected to be where the victim had been swept by the flash flood’s current. The team also coordinated with various parties and deployed heavy equipment to dismantle piles of debris carried by the flood.
“We also followed up on every lead deemed suspicious. This included yesterday, when there was an indication in the western area near where the body of another victim was found. We excavated using heavy equipment due to suspicious odours, but the victim had not yet been found,” he explained.
The search was conducted not only on land but also extended to coastal and maritime areas. The search perimeter was expanded eastwards, crossing the Temukus area, and westwards as far as Kalianget.
Donny stated that the combined SAR team faced several obstacles during the seven days of searching, including unpredictable weather conditions and large piles of wood, mud, and debris carried by the flash flood.
“Unfavourable weather and piles of material posed significant challenges in the field. However, we maximised our search efforts by coordinating with various parties, including the use of heavy equipment and weather information from the Meteorological and Geophysical Agency,” said Donny.
Donny urged residents to immediately report if they discover any signs indicating the victim’s whereabouts. Although search operations have been closed, Buleleng SAR continues to monitor the situation. According to him, SAR operations could be reopened if signs of the victim’s presence are discovered.
“Today we conducted mediation with the family regarding SAR operation procedures. Based on standard operating procedures, we formally close our search operations,” said Donny.
“Should there be any strong indications of the victim’s whereabouts in the future, we are prepared to reopen SAR operations to assist with the evacuation process,” he concluded.
As previously reported, the flash flood that struck Banjar Village in Buleleng swept away four residents on Friday (6 March). Three have been found deceased and one remains missing.
The three deceased victims were Ketut Adi Suarjana (55), Komang Suci (44) and her son Kadek Wahyu (12). The one victim yet to be found is Putu Wini (17), also the daughter of Komang Suci.