A devastating landslide struck a remote village in the Bone Bolango district of Gorontalo province late Saturday, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 individuals and leaving 19 more unaccounted for. The disaster occurred after heavy rains inundated the area, exacerbating the risk in a region known for its unlicensed mining activities.

"Eight people who have died have been evacuated. Five people survived but were injured, from light to heavy injuries," said Heriyanto, the head of the local search and rescue agency, who goes by one name. He noted that three additional fatalities had yet to be retrieved, and 19 people remain missing.

The landslide's impact was compounded by the collapse of several bridges, forcing rescuers to reach the disaster site on foot due to the challenging terrain. Heriyanto added that at least 180 personnel, including police officers and soldiers, had been deployed for the rescue operation.

Unlicensed mines are prevalent across Indonesia, particularly in mineral-rich areas where abandoned sites lure locals searching for leftover gold ore without adequate safety measures. The Southeast Asian archipelago is prone to landslides, especially during the rainy season from November to April, although July typically experiences dry conditions.

This recent landslide is a tragic reminder of the risks faced by those working in illegal mining. In May, landslides and flooding in South Sulawesi province claimed at least 15 lives, destroying dozens of houses and infrastructure. A month earlier, a landslide in the same province resulted in 20 fatalities.

Authorities continue to search for the missing and provide aid to the affected communities, as they navigate the treacherous landscape and strive to prevent further loss of life. (ILKHA)