Search continues for missing Belarusian twin climbers in Türkiye
Work has resumed to find two Belarusian sister climbers who went missing in Aladaglar in Nigde's Camardi district. (AA Photo)
Search efforts entered their second day on Wednesday for Valentina Ivankova and Maryia Ivankova, twin Belarusian climbers who went missing during an ascent of the Kizilkaya Peak in Türkiye’s Aladaglar mountain range.
The 36-year-old sisters were last heard from on Nov. 16. Valentina wrote on her social media platform that she has been a hiker for over 10 years and that this activity has made her strong and patient.
Like her twin sister, Maryia also wrote, “I have been an avid hiker for over 10 years, exploring and embracing the beauty of nature” on her social media platform.
Twins last seen heading toward Kizilkaya Peak
The Ivankova sisters embarked on their climb from the Sokullupinar base camp on Nov. 16 and were expected to return by Nov. 18. After failing to make contact, Belarusian officials informed local authorities on Nov. 19, prompting the launch of a search operation.
The Kizilkaya Peak, at an elevation of 3,771 meters (12,372 feet), is located between the central provinces of Nigde and Kayseri.
Multi-agency rescue operation underway for missing Belarusian twins
The Nigde Provincial Governor’s Office confirmed that teams from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the Gendarmerie Search and Rescue (JAK), and local amateur climbers from Yahyali are involved in the search.
A reconnaissance plane from Ankara is also aiding in efforts. Authorities said approximately 15 rescuers are combing areas around the Kizilkaya summit and Emli Valley.
The operation is focused on key routes the climbers may have taken.
No leads yet in challenging conditions
Despite intensive efforts, no traces of the climbers have been found. Poor visibility and rugged terrain have complicated the search. Rescuers paused operations overnight but resumed at first light.
“We have not heard from the two sisters and are still looking for them,” an embassy spokesperson told Agence France-Presse (AFP).
The 36-year-old twins set off to climb the Kizilkaya Peak on Saturday and had been expected back at their base camp on Monday, the local governor’s office said.
Nigde’s governor’s office confirmed that the search will continue as long as necessary. The Belarusian embassy stated they are closely monitoring the situation.
The mountainous region, now covered in snow, has a very challenging mountain terrain.
A manned reconnaissance plane from Ankara also scanned the area. The two sisters could not be reached again today.
The teams, who had difficulty in the search due to the snow thickness reaching 60 centimeters in places, were taken from their location by helicopter and brought to Demirkazik Camp Training Center.
The suspended search will be resumed tomorrow if the weather conditions are favorable.
