SAR deploys tracking dogs to search for rain-induced lahar victims on the slopes of Mount Merapi

Magelang (ANTARA) — A joint Search and Rescue (SAR) team deployed tracking dogs (K-9) belonging to Magelang City Police and utilised unmanned aircraft technology (drones) to speed up the search for victims of the rain-triggered lahar on the slopes of Mount Merapi, in Magelang Regency.

Joint SAR Commander Arif Yulianto in Magelang, on Thursday, said the tracking dogs were deployed to detect the whereabouts of victims suspected to be buried under material.

The dogs combed areas that had been mapped beforehand based on witness reports and field findings.

The effort follows difficulties in the search due to deposits of sand, rock, and mud several meters thick at various points along the river channel. Additionally, the previously strong lahar flows had altered the river contours, complicating identification of victim locations.

As of now, two victims remain unlocated in the incident.

“There are several methods; first we use K9, then a manual sweep with personnel; yes, for the drone we also use it, the aim is to map the area along Sungai Senowo,” he said.

He stated that drone use is for visual aerial surveillance. Drones are flown periodically to map the affected area, monitor material movement, and identify points that may become victim locations.

From the air surveillance, the team could observe patterns of lahar deposition, the latest flow paths, and areas prone to subsequent landslides. The visual data are then used as the basis for prioritising the sweep by the team.

“The aim is to facilitate us also if it can be detected by drone. Our difficulties lie in the thickness of the sand material and also the weather conditions that are not certain,” he said.

In addition to the search, SAR teams also pay attention to personnel safety. Every movement is conducted under strict supervision given the potential for further lahar floods if rain returns to the summit area.

To date, the search is ongoing and the team continues to broaden the search area according to field analysis and air surveillance. Officials urge residents not to approach the affected area for safety and to give SAR teams space to operate effectively.