TNI deploys 1,267 personnel for East Nusa Tenggara quake response

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has deployed 1,267 personnel to support disaster response efforts following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on Saturday morning.

The Head of Public Information at the TNI Information Center, Colonel (Navy) Agung Saptoadi, said that the TNI personnel, together with other relevant agencies and local residents, continue to search for and treat victims, as well as assist with damage mitigation efforts in affected areas.

"The TNI is also supporting the operation of command posts and field kitchens to help meet the needs of affected residents," Saptoadi said in a statement in Jakarta on Saturday.

As of Saturday afternoon, the TNI personnel deployed across the affected areas included 263 in Sikka District, 105 in Ngada District, 400 in Nagekeo District, 120 in Ende District, 295 across Manggarai and East Manggarai Districts, and 84 in West Manggarai District.

To support disaster response efforts, the TNI has deployed various logistical support, including 89 vehicles, 21 field tents, and 120 cots.

The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has also readied a Bell 412 helicopter from Juanda Naval Air Base to support disaster relief efforts in Flores, including transporting personnel and distributing aid to affected areas.

Saptoadi said the deployment of personnel and defense equipment reflected the military's rapid response in assisting communities affected by the earthquake.

"The TNI, together with all relevant agencies, will continue to carry out integrated operations to support search and rescue efforts, victim care, and the recovery of affected communities and areas," he said.

According to the National Agency for Disaster Countermeasures (BNPB), as of 6:48 p.m. Western Indonesia Time (WIB) on Saturday, the death toll from the NTT earthquake had reached 47.

Acting Head of the BNPB's Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center, Berton SP Panjaitan, said in an official statement that fatalities were recorded in several areas, including 24 in Manggarai, 17 in East Manggarai, 3 in Sikka, 1 in Ngada, and 1 in Ende.

Regarding structural damage, Panjaitan noted that 157 houses were severely damaged, 41 moderately damaged, and 148 lightly damaged.

Damage was also reported to public infrastructure, including 87 educational facilities, 18 healthcare facilities, five places of worship, and six office buildings.

Related news: Indonesia deploys Rp4.5 billion in aid after deadly NTT earthquake

Translator: Agatha Olivia, Raka Adji
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
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