Rescue operations suspended in Kerlingarfjöll after false distress call from two tourists

Tuesday 6th August 2024 on 20:54 in Iceland Iceland

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Search and rescue operations in Kerlingarfjöll have been ongoing since last night for two foreign tourists. The tourists called for help from emergency services, claiming they were trapped in a cave. Over one hundred rescue team members have participated in extensive search efforts, but only the location of the distress signals has provided any leads.

However, strong indications have emerged suggesting the distress call may have been false. Based on this new information, along with the lack of new leads from the significant search efforts since last night, the police chief in South Iceland has decided, in collaboration with Landsbjörg, to suspend further search activities until more information is available.

Rescue teams continue to operate, and further assistance is expected to arrive as the evening progresses, with reports of favorable weather in the search area. The first search dog has also arrived to assist in the efforts.

Meanwhile, police are questioning tourists who have recently returned from Kerlingarfjöll, and the vehicle belonging to the tourists has been located at a campsite but has been confirmed not to belong to them. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage to gather more information about the situation.

As the search continues, additional rescue personnel from various parts of the country have been called to assist. Nonetheless, the situation remains uncertain with no definitive confirmation regarding the whereabouts of the two individuals, and the police are investigating further.

Source 
(via ruv.is)