Context:

An Indonesian volcano guide led a 20‑person hike up Mount Dukono on Halmahera before a sudden eruption killed three hikers and injured others. The guide narrowly escaped a rock blast that crushed two teammates; authorities say climbing permits had been prohibited and a 4 km exclusion zone was in place, though the group was unaware. The incident triggered a search-and-rescue that recovered bodies and left survivors hospitalized, with investigators signaling possible negligence by operators. Dukono has erupted repeatedly this year, and officials have permanently closed the ascent while investigations continue. The episode underscores safety and enforcement gaps around guided treks near active volcanoes and portends potential regulatory changes.

Dive Deeper:

• Reza Selang, a North Maluku tour operator, led a group of hikers up Mount Dukono when the eruption occurred, with 14 hikers reaching the summit while he and others stayed below.

• The eruption sequence began around 07:40 local time, with an initial smoke release followed minutes later by a more powerful eruption that sent volcanic material toward the group.

• Two Singaporean hikers and one Indonesian were killed in the collapse, while the remaining hikers were evacuated to a hospital for treatment; the victim names and exact timings are provided in rescue reports.

• Rescuers found the body of one hiker near the summit on Saturday and recovered the other two remains by Sunday; a drone used by the guide aided in locating victims and guiding the search.

• Authorities permanently closed all entrances to Mount Dukono and warned that violations of the climbing ban would entail sanctions, while investigations consider potential negligence by tourism operators or individuals involved.

• Reza has been questioned by police and handed over drone footage; investigators are examining the roles of those who organized the climb and have indicated that those responsible for the loss of life could face legal consequences.

• Despite the ban, Reza and others had previously continued to guide ascents, citing a general belief that level two volcanoes still permit hiking, highlighting a broader debate over safety standards and regulatory enforcement.