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59 Students Trapped in Indonesian School After Earthquake

10/2/2025

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

As of October 2, 2025, 59 students remain trapped at the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, Indonesia.
Five people are confirmed dead.
Officials cite a "technological failure" linked to substandard construction.
Rescuers use thermal-sensing drones and underground tunnels; a 6.5-magnitude earthquake hinders efforts.
Head of the National Search and Rescue Agency calls for tougher safety rules.

History

Historical Context

The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami killed over 230,000 people across 14 countries, prompting Indonesia to establish the National Disaster Management Agency to improve building regulations. The recent crisis at the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School highlights ongoing construction safety issues, as officials cite "technological failure" in substandard buildings, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations in earthquake-prone regions.

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Story summary

As of October 2, 2025, 59 students remain trapped at the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, Indonesia.
Five people are confirmed dead.
Officials cite a "technological failure" linked to substandard construction.
Rescuers use thermal-sensing drones and underground tunnels; a 6.5-magnitude earthquake hinders efforts.
Head of the National Search and Rescue Agency calls for tougher safety rules.

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