Inp.polri.go.id - Medan. The death toll from a devastating landslide in Sembahe Village, Sibolangit District, Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra, has climbed to nine, local authorities confirmed on Thursday (28/11/2024).

"Two additional victims were recovered today, adding to the seven fatalities found earlier," said Medan City Sub-regional Police Chief Senior Superintendent Gidion Arif Setyawan, as quoted by antaranews.com.

A joint rescue team, comprising the Deli Serdang Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), North Sumatra Regional Police, Medan Police and Pancur Batu Police Office has been working to evacuate those trapped and remove debris with heavy equipment.

The landslide, triggered by torrential rains that began early Tuesday, has also disrupted traffic on the Medan-Berastagi route, which remains impassable. 

"The road is completely blocked near the PDAM Tirtanadi area," said Senior Superintendent Muji Ediyanto, North Sumatra Police Director of Traffic.

Chief Gidion added that all recovered victims have been identified and returned to their families. Efforts are ongoing to clear the road and restore normalcy in the affected area.

Officials urge caution as heavy rains continue, increasing the risk of further landslides in the region.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)