Ministry of Immigration and Corrections
Directorate General of Immigration
JAKARTA – The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Kementerian Imipas) handed over aid for evacuees affected by the eruption of Mount Lewotobi in Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), to the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Air Force (Wakasau), Air Marshal TNI Andyawan Martono, on Monday, November 25, 2024. The aid will be delivered using a Hercules aircraft belonging to the TNI and distributed through the Main Base of the Indonesian Navy in Region VII by the Immigration Division and Corrections Division in NTT.
“We are here to provide real support to our brothers and sisters affected by the eruption of Mount Lewotobi. This is not just a governmental duty but also a calling of the heart to face this difficult time together,” said the Minister of Immigration and Corrections, Agus Andrianto, during a ceremony for handing over humanitarian aid at Base Ops Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, East Jakarta, on Friday (November 22, 2024).
The eruption of Mount Lewotobi, which occurred on November 4, 2024, displaced thousands of residents and caused significant hardships. Ten people were reported dead due to the eruption, with most victims affected by hot lava and building debris. Additionally, at least 63 people sustained injuries, and more than 12,200 residents from 14 villages had to evacuate to safer locations. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency until the end of December 2024, while the Volcano Monitoring Post continues to monitor potential further threats, including the risk of lahar floods triggered by rain.
As a swift response, the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections provided basic necessities such as food, clothing, and medicines to alleviate the burden of evacuees. Moreover, the Ministry of Impas also facilitated coordination with other agencies involved in disaster management, both at the national and regional levels, to ensure the smooth distribution of aid.
This humanitarian aid is sourced from donations by the personnel of the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, as an expression of solidarity toward fellow citizens in need.
“Our hearts are with the people of Lembata Regency. This assistance is a small part of our efforts to support their recovery. We have coordinated with various parties to ensure their needs are met,” concluded Minister Agus.
Last updated 25 November 2024
