Rescue team locates four exhausted teens lost in Batam forest after hours-long search

Four teenagers from Bengkong were rescued after losing their way in Sekupang Forest while trekking to Telaga Bidadari Waterfall in Batam on the afternoon of April 3, 2025.

The incident occurred during a public holiday when the teens entered the forest without a guide. Their misadventure quickly escalated into a rescue operation involving multiple emergency units from Batam.

At approximately 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, the group of four teenagers ventured into the forest area of Sekupang, aiming to visit the scenic Telaga Bidadari waterfall. Lacking a guide and unfamiliar with the terrain, they soon lost their bearings and were unable to find a way out.

Panic set in after hours of unsuccessful attempts to retrace their path. Eventually, one of the teens managed to contact a family member, who immediately alerted local authorities. This led to the deployment of a joint search and rescue team consisting of personnel from the Batam City Fire Department, Basarnas, Polairud, and municipal disaster units.

The search proved challenging as daylight faded and the forest’s dense vegetation and uneven paths made navigation difficult. However, coordination between agencies and tracking their last known communication led rescuers to the teens’ location around 9:00 p.m. All four were found physically exhausted but unharmed.

The teenagers were identified as Muhamad Fahrin (SMAN 8 Batam), Rama Syaputra (SMAN 25 Batam), Rehan Syahgunawan (SMK Al-Jabar), and Arip Rahman Hakim, all residents of the Bengkong area. Emergency responders provided immediate assistance at the site before reuniting them with their families.

Authorities have since issued a public advisory urging caution when exploring natural sites. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use local guides, especially in unfamiliar or remote areas, to avoid similar incidents.

This incident highlights the need for better visitor education and safety measures in Batam’s natural attractions. As interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations grows among youth and tourists alike, guided exploration remains essential for ensuring safety and avoiding unnecessary risks.

Sources: Batam News (2025), Batam News (2025)

Keywords: Bengkong Students, Lost In Forest, Batam Waterfall, Teen Rescue Operation