Ternate, N Maluku (ANTARA News) - Mount Gamalama in North Maluku province erupted on Sunday night, causing panic among local residents.

The 1,700-meter high volcano spewed ash which fell in Ternate city.

Some of the local residents living on the slope of Mt Gamalama began to take refuge at their relatives` houses near the city`s coast.

A number of local residents expressed regret over a lack of information from the city administration and other relevant parties about the volcano`s status.

Ternate Deputy Mayor Arifin Djafar called an impromptu meeting with various relevant agencies to discuss mitigation efforts in the wake of the volcano`s eruption.

"We hope Ternate residents would not panic but they must remain vigilant. The city administration will inform the residents of what to do after Mount Gamalama has erupted," he said. (*)

Editor: Kunto Wibisono
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