Indonesian authorities are responding to a deadly volcanic eruption at Mount Dukono that killed three hikers and left 20 missing on May 8, 2026. The victims included two Singaporean nationals and one Indonesian local, part of a group that defied safety warnings to climb the active volcano. Rescue teams face hazardous conditions as they search for survivors amid ongoing volcanic activity and ash plumes reaching 10 kilometers high.BBC News+2
Three hikers died during the explosive eruption, with two identified as Singaporean citizens and one as an Indonesian resident. The victims were among 20 climbers who ignored geological agency warnings dating back to 2024. Rescue officials confirmed the deaths while continuing search operations for the remaining missing persons.BBC News+2
Mount Dukono's eruption sent volcanic ash 10 kilometers into the atmosphere, creating dangerous conditions on Halmahera Island. The volcano has erupted over 200 times since March 2025, with this being its most deadly recent event. Video footage captured the massive ash cloud, highlighting the risks of volcanic tourism in Indonesia's active regions.BBC News+2
Fourteen climbers have been rescued so far, including seven foreigners, but operations are hampered by difficult terrain and ongoing volcanic hazards. Emergency signals helped locate some survivors, while ashfall and potential mudflows continue to threaten rescue efforts. Authorities have deployed specialized teams to the remote Moluccas location.BBC News+2
The involvement of Singaporean victims has drawn international attention to Indonesia's volcanic risks. The incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement of safety warnings at active volcanoes. Indonesian officials are coordinating with foreign embassies while assessing long-term monitoring solutions for Mount Dukono's increased activity.Huanqiu+2