inp.polri.go.id - Ternate. The extreme weather of rain has caused hydrometeorology in several areas in North Maluku Province. At the very least, there is one flash flood, four land slides, and 15 floods in three regencies, West Halmahera, North Halmahera, and Tidore Island City.
Since the disaster first hit the regions, police personnel have been sent to evacuate the people and ensure the basic needs of the community are met.
According to the police data on January 7th, 2026, the disaster has taken three lives, two in West Halmahera and one in North Halmahera.
Other than the fatalities, thousands were forced to evacuate with the number of evacuees reaching 5,000 people in West Halmahera and 1,311 in North Halmahera.
Heavy rains that continued from Monday to the early hours of Thursday also impacted vital infrastructure.
The Ake Aru Bridge connecting Tobelo and Loloda in North Galela District, North Halmahera Regency, was reportedly cut off due to strong floodwaters.
This situation hampered public mobility and the distribution of supplies. The National Police (Polri) secured the area and coordinated with relevant agencies to expedite handling and restore access.
Amidst rescue efforts, the Indonesian National Police (INP) also distributed humanitarian aid to affected residents.
In West Halmahera Regency, the local police, along with the village government, distributed 1,000 boxes of instant noodles and 1,000 5-kilogram sacks of rice.
This aid was distributed in stages to affected locations and evacuation centers, tailored to the needs of the community on the ground.
North Maluku Regional Police Chief Inspector General Waris Agono, emphasized that speed and collaboration are key to disaster management.
"Our personnel are mobilizing from the nearest unit with the necessary equipment and working with relevant agencies. The main priority is the safety of residents, victim care, and ensuring that evacuees receive adequate attention and basic needs," he said.
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