As floodwaters continue to submerge large areas of Aceh Tamiang, Indonesia, a daring operation by the National police Air Unit delivered critical aid to isolated communities on Saturday. The delivery was complicated by a lack of safe landing zones,forcing the flight crew to accept significant risk to reach residents in need. This mission underscores the logistical challenges facing relief efforts as Indonesia continues to grapple with the aftermath of recent,devastating flooding across Sumatra,where over 900 deaths have been confirmed [[1]] and hundreds remain missing.
Aceh Tamiang –
Indonesian National Police Air Unit personnel delivered vital logistical aid to communities in Aceh Tamiang, Aceh, following devastating flash floods. The delivery proved exceptionally challenging, as the widespread flooding left virtually no safe locations for helicopter landings.
As of Saturday, December 6, 2025, much of the region remained submerged, hindering relief efforts.
“There were no safe areas to drop supplies,” said National Police spokesperson Irjen Pol Sandi Nugroho. “The entire area is flooded, open land has become a strong current, and evacuation points are inaccessible.”
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Despite the perilous conditions, police were able to deliver the aid, accepting a high degree of risk to ensure the needs of those affected were met.
The operation involved a four-person crew: pilot AKBP Dian Didik Arvianto, co-pilot Iptu Vidya H Mangundjaya, Aipda Sanioko, and Bripka Kukuh Wahyu.
“The pilot had to make a quick decision,” Nugroho explained. “Amid strong winds and limited visibility, he identified a single, extremely risky landing spot – but it was the last hope for residents awaiting assistance.”
Local residents immediately approached the helicopter as the aid packages were dropped from the Poludara Baharkam Polri aircraft. The supplies will be distributed gradually, despite the ongoing logistical challenges.
“With precise maneuvering, the helicopter was held at a low altitude,” Nugroho said. “The aircrew remained vigilant, ensuring the packages landed accurately without endangering residents. This decision wasn’t without danger.”
“But for the sake of our fellow citizens enduring the floods in Aceh Tamiang, that risk had to be taken. Because in a critical moment like this, the safety of many lives is more important than anything,” he added.
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(jbr/idh)
