Indonesia West Java Quarry Landslide Kills 17, 8 Missing

A rock collapse at a limestone quarry in West Java, Indonesia, has resulted in at least 17 deaths with eight people still missing, according to multiple official sources. The incident occurred at the Gunung Kuda mining site in Cirebon Regency, an area prone to landslides, especially during heavy rainfall, exacerbated by steep slopes and the undercutting mining method used. Rescue efforts have been challenging due to dangerous conditions, including the risk of further landslides and buried heavy equipment, and have involved an increased number of search and rescue personnel employing excavators and rescue dogs. Authorities have emphasized the provisional nature of the death toll and continue to investigate the cause of the collapse to prevent future incidents. The site reportedly does not meet safety standards for workers, raising concerns about mining practices in the region. Officials have urged caution during ongoing rescue operations, particularly regarding weather conditions to ensure the safety of rescuers.