Sentani, Papua province (ANTARA News) - Three people have reportedly died in a landslide that struck a hill area in Sentani, Jayapura district, here on Saturday at 08.45 local time.

According to information gathered by ANTARA, the three people were dredging in the hill area when the landslide struck. Latest reports say police have recovered one body and are searching for the two other victims.

The landslide is said to have occurred following days of heavy rains. Another factor that contributed to the disaster is illegal dredging, conducted by residents looking for minerals, stones and sand.

Yusuf, a local resident, said he heard a loud noise when walking near the area this morning. When he investigated, he discovered that the dirt and rocks had covered the side of the hill where the three men were working. (*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2014