Officials and media in Papua New Guinea reported on Friday that over 100 individuals are feared dead following a devastating landslide that struck a remote village.
The landslide hit Kaokalam village in Enga province, approximately 600 kilometers northwest of the capital, Port Moresby, around 3 a.m. local time, according to officials and eyewitnesses.
A local community representative said approximately 100 homes were buried under the debris.
Footage and photographs from the scene depict rescuers combing through rubble and debris amidst towering boulders and trees on a steep mountainside.
An official from the Papua New Guinea Red Cross stated that the exact toll of casualties is still uncertain, but it is feared that over 100 people may have perished.
The official confirmed that the landslide had obstructed a section of the main highway leading to the village, hindering access for rescuers. Consequently, residents had taken on the role of first responders.
The cause of the landslide remains unclear, although the region experiences frequent heavy rainfall.
Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea issued a statement affirming that his government will deploy disaster response teams to the landslide site. Their mission includes initiating relief efforts, recovering bodies, and commencing the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure.
Marape extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.