Dutch Tourists Survived After Being Trapped In Bukit Meang Thanks To Police Cooperation And Sekotong Residents

JAKARTA - Members of the Sekotong Police, West Lombok Police, together with Babinsa and local residents managed to save a tourist from the Netherlands, Sem Van Der Ven (22), who was trapped in Bukit Meang, Sekotong District, West Nusa Tenggara.

This incident began when Sem, who was staying at the Kuta Beach Hostel, decided to fish on the coast of Meang Beach in the morning at around 07.00 WITA. At that time, the sea water was receding, and Sem did not realize that the sea water would tide along with the increasing sun, so that it could not return to the path he had originally traveled.

When the sea water started to tide, Sem was trapped in the middle of a steep cliff. In a precarious situation, he sent a video and location of his whereabouts to his friend, Nikaj, who is also from the Netherlands. Nikaj then reported the incident to the Kuta Central Lombok Police, who then forwarded the report to the Sekotong Police.

Receiving the report, the Sekotong Police Chief, Iptu I Ketut Suriarta, immediately deployed members of the Sekotong Police, assisted by Babinsa Buwun Mas and the surrounding community, to evacuate. The rescue team had to fight against difficult terrain and hot weather, but thanks to their hard work and good coordination, Sem was successfully evacuated safely around 13.00 WITA.

After being evacuated, Sem was examined by the medical team and declared not injured. He was then escorted back to the hotel where he was staying.

Ketut Suriarta emphasized the importance of vigilance when doing activities in the open. He appealed to tourists, both domestic and foreign, to always pay attention to safety and not hesitate to ask for help if they experience difficulties.

"We are always ready to serve and protect the community, including tourists visiting our area. Don't hesitate to contact if you need help," he said.