2 Climbers Missing on Semeru, BNPB: Do Not Recklessly Enter Disaster Areas and Mounts Under Alert Status

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) expressed concern over the disappearance of two climbers reported missing on Mount Semeru, Lumajang Regency, East Java.

"We are saddened by the news regarding the disappearance of two climbers on Mount Semeru," said Berton Panjaitan, Acting Head of Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center at BNPB, during a press conference in East Jakarta on Tuesday (10/11/2026).

The public is advised not to force their way into disaster-prone areas, especially when a volcano is still on Alert Status or Level III.

"Please do not recklessly approach or enter disaster-prone areas, particularly on volcanoes with Alert Status," he urged.

Berton reminded the public, especially climbers, to always heed the recommendations and directions from authorities before engaging in activities in volcanic areas.

"Learning from this incident, we hope everyone, especially those who want to hike, will pay attention to guidelines from the relevant authorities," he added.

Berton emphasized that volcanic activity is unpredictable and the timing of potential dangers cannot be foreseen.

Therefore, compliance with safety recommendations by climbers is a crucial step in preventing casualties.

"We cannot predict when a volcano will erupt, but we can ensure our safety by adhering to the advice of the authorities," Berton stated.

He remains hopeful that the search operation for the two missing climbers proceeds smoothly and that they can be found safe.

"We pray that the search operation for the missing persons runs smoothly, and that both victims can be found safely," he said.

Berton noted that as of Tuesday (10/11/2026), three volcanoes remain at Alert Status or Level III.

These are Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait, Mount Merapi on the border of Central Java and Yogyakarta Special Region, and Mount Semeru in East Java.

BNPB reported that area managers have closed the climbing routes on all three mountains for public safety.