A sudden volcanic eruption at the Mount Dukono in Indonesia on Friday morning (May 8) has left three hikers dead and several others missing, after a massive ash plume forced a chaotic evacuation from the mountain’s slopes. Authorities said the volcano released a towering ash column rising nearly 10,000 metres (32,808 feet) into the sky, triggering panic among trekking groups in the area.

A viral video from the scene captured a tour guide urgently leading hikers to safety as conditions rapidly deteriorated. In the footage, the guide can be heard reacting in shock as volcanic debris begins to fall, saying, “Oh my god, they died,” while warning others to move quickly down the mountain. The clip shows tourists rushing downhill as ash and smoke spread across the area, obscuring visibility and raising fears of further collapse or rockfall.

According to local authorities, a total of 20 hikers had entered the restricted volcanic zone despite an official climbing ban due to heightened activity in recent weeks. Officials confirmed that the victims included one Indonesian resident from Ternate and two tourists from Singapore. Rescue operations were launched immediately, though difficult terrain and unstable conditions hampered early recovery efforts.

Also Read: US Moves to Escort Ships Through Strait of Hormuz Despite Iran Warning

North Halmahera police officials said warning signs had been ignored by visitors, particularly foreign tourists reportedly attempting to capture footage and content from the active volcanic site. Authorities noted that local residents generally avoid the area during periods of elevated activity due to familiarity with the volcano’s unpredictable eruptions.

Mount Dukono is one of Indonesia’s most persistently active volcanoes, located on Halmahera Island near the town of Tobelo. It is known for frequent ash emissions and sudden eruptive episodes, making it both a site of scientific interest and significant danger. Despite its volatility, it continues to attract adventure tourists and volcanology enthusiasts.

Experts have repeatedly warned that trekking in active volcanic zones requires strict adherence to safety protocols and reliance on local guidance. Authorities emphasized that even experienced hikers can be caught off guard by rapid changes in volcanic activity, underscoring the risks of entering restricted zones during elevated alert levels.

Also Read: Axis Bank Signs $500 Million Offshore Loan Deal With MUFG