Search Underway for Missing Indonesian Journalists Near Erupting Volcano

Rescue operations are currently in progress off the coast of Indonesia as five photojournalists remain unaccounted for following their departure towards the Anak Krakatau volcano. The group, which also included two crew members and a guide, lost contact shortly after setting sail from Carita, a coastal town in Banten province.

According to Al Amrad, chief of Banten province's Search and Rescue Office, the last communication from the missing boat was received on September 7 at 6:13 p.m., indicating they had arrived in the vicinity of Anak Krakatau. Rescue teams have been deployed since September 8 but have yet to establish any contact with the group.

The journalists, who were on assignment for Indonesia's state news agency Antara and several other media outlets, were last known to be approximately 18.5 kilometers (11.5 miles) from the shore. Their mission coincides with ongoing volcanic activity at Anak Krakatau, which has shown intermittent eruptions, including lava and ash explosions.

This recent volcanic activity has led to significant disruptions, including airport closures that have affected nearly 2,961 flights and around 341,000 passengers. The Indonesian government has also mandated that schools in areas impacted by volcanic ash temporarily switch to online learning to protect students.

Source: www.thehindu.com