Inp.polri.go.id - Jayapura. Fifteen people were reported missing after being swept away by a flash flood while crossing the Panpan River in Dal District, Nduga Regency, Papua Mountains, on Saturday.

“They had just finished playing volleyball and were advised by nearby soldiers not to cross the river due to heavy rain, but they proceeded. A landslide and sudden flood then struck, sweeping them away,” Nduga Sub-regional Police Chief Superintendent Alredo Agustinus Rumbiak told antaranews.com on Monday (3/11/2025).

Local residents have continued searching along the riverbanks, though bad weather has hampered rescue efforts. Chief Rumbiak urged the public to stay cautious when crossing rivers during the rainy season.

The missing include several students and residents identified as Endius Gwijangge, Nendiu Gwijangge, Yupin Pokneangge, and others. Heavy rain continues across the area, raising concerns of further flooding and landslides.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)