Indonesia Earthquake Disaster

31 March 2005 – As well as the widespread destruction in Gunung Sitoli, the main city on Nias Island, Indonesia, The Salvation Army's Compassion in Action team has reported from Mandrehe, North Nias, that the two-storey house it was using as a health post and staff accommodation (accommodation upstairs and clinic downstairs) has collapsed, with the loss of all medicines and equipment. The doctor, nurses and other team members are safe.

The Salvation Army headquarters in Indonesia also reports that its properties in Teluk Dalam (a major city in the south of the island) have been totally ruined. These include the district office, two corps and accommodation for officers. Major Nico Sumampouw (Divisional Commander, North Sumatra) has travelled to Teluk Dalam with relief supplies and to assess the situation. Although communications are difficult he reports that all Salvation Army officers in the area are unharmed and staying in refugee camps.

Captain Dina Ismael, an Indonesian and former leader of The Salvation Army's International Emergency Services Steering Committee, will charter a plane to travel to the area with Compassion in Action team members to support the local Salvation Army and bring assistance to victims of this tragedy.