ACEH TENGAH | INDATANEWS.COM ~ Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, conducted a working visit to a sinkhole site in Pondok Balik Village, Ketol District, Aceh Tengah Regency, Aceh, on Monday (April 20, 2026). The inspection took place at around 5:00 p.m. local time under tight police security and coordination with supporting security forces.
Aceh Tengah Police Chief, AKBP Muhamad Taufiq accompanied the minister during the field inspection of the collapsed area, which has significantly affected the environment and disrupted local mobility.
On-Site Assessment of Structural Damag
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Tito Karnavian received a comprehensive briefing from the Aceh Provincial Road and Bridge Agency (BPJN Aceh). The report outlined the extent of the damage, ongoing emergency measures, and planned follow-up mitigation efforts.
The minister and his delegation then directly inspected the affected site to gain a first-hand understanding of the geological impact. The visit aimed to ensure an evidence-based assessment of the damage and to identify potential secondary risks associated with the sinkhole phenomenon.
Authorities emphasized the urgency of accelerated response efforts through coordinated action among relevant institutions.
SMOOTH SECURITY OPERATION: Central Aceh Police Chief AKBP Muhamad Taufiq confirms a safe, orderly, and stable ministerial visit to the sinkhole site. (PHOTO: Adli Safwan)
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The inspection was attended by a broad range of officials, including Aceh Deputy Governor Fadhlullah, S.E., a representative from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) serving as Central Aceh operational commander, Brig. Gen. TNI Mohammad Syech Ismed, Central Aceh Regent Drs. H. Haili Yoga, M.Si., Commander of Military District 0106 Central Aceh Letkol Inf Raden Herman Sasmita, as well as representatives from
BPJN Aceh and the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda).
Their presence highlighted strong inter-agency coordination between the central government, regional authorities, and technical institutions in addressing the geological disaster.
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Security Situation Remains Stable and ControlledPolice Chief AKBP Muhamad Taufiq stated that security personnel closely monitored the entire visit to ensure a smooth and orderly process.
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The ministerial delegation concluded the visit at approximately 5:40 p.m. before continuing their journey to Takengon City. The entire operation proceeded safely and without incident, supported by effective coordination among all involved agencies. (IDNC)
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