Aceh – Indonesia, Herman Yudin Gulo (53), a resident of Tadukan Raga Village, Sinembah Tanjung Muda Hilir District, Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra, was reported missing after being swept away by waves while swimming in the coastal area of Peunaga Rayeuk Village, Meureubo District, West Aceh Regency.

The incident occurred on Saturday, October 4, 2026, at around 5:00 PM WIB. At the time of the event, Herman was swimming with several of his companions along the beach.

The Chief Executive of the West Aceh Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Dharmawan, stated that the victim was suspected to have been dragged away by the waves after venturing further out into the sea with his friends.

“The victim was allegedly swept away by the waves and separated from his companions. He was swimming with his friends and moved further out toward the open sea. His companions had warned him to return to the shore, but the victim ignored the warning,” Dharmawan said in his report.

According to Dharmawan, the victim’s friends attempted a rescue. However, local residents advised them to stop due to high wave conditions and strong ocean currents.

Locals were concerned that attempting a rescue using improvised equipment might lead to additional casualties.

Upon receiving the report, a BPBD rescue team, firefighters, and the Disaster Operations Control Center (Pusdalops) were immediately deployed to the location to conduct a search.

“The rescue team, firefighters, and Pusdalops went straight to the scene to carry out the search. The victim has not yet been found by the team and remains missing,” he added.

As of nightfall, BPBD personnel were still searching the area, combing the shoreline and waters using rubber boats.

In addition to the search efforts, officers set up a temporary tent post near the scene to support the ongoing operation.***