The National SAR Agency (Basarnas) of West Java has warned the public to not swim at beaches along the south coast of West Java following the disappearance of tourists.
The reminder comes after tourists have gone missing along beaches in West Java, including an incident on Ciseureuh Beach, Garut regency, on Monday, June 26, when 25-year-old Rama and 15-year-old Aji were both swept into the ocean.
Slamet Riyadi, Head of the SAR Bandung office, said the tourists had been swimming when they were swept away.
“The victims were dragged by the waves and disappeared,” Riyadi said in a statement received by AFP, as quoted by Detik.
Officers from Basarnas, Polairud Pantai Santolo and the Indonesian Military (TNI) have formed a joint task force to search for the victims.
Infrastructure and guest facilities are lacking along the south coast of West Java, including signs warning of the dangers, Riyadi said on Tuesday, June 27.
“We have provided SAR (search and rescue) training and established potential SAR institutions, but it is also difficult if the infrastructure and safety facilities are minimal,” he said.
“However, visitors should also be aware of the danger when swimming in forbidden places.”
Meanwhile, Kasatpolair Garut Police, AKP Tri Andri explained that 11 beach tourist attractions in Garut district still have minimal facilities and security infrastructure as well as limited security personnel.
During the Idul Fitri holiday season, Andri said securing the coastline has been more difficult than usual with more visitors heading to the beach.
“Victims who were swept away by the current on Monday were just playing on the beach,” he said.
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Image credits: Detik
