Ongoing hunt for the missing 59-year-old individual, known for his mushroom foraging hobby
In the vast and remote landscape of Yakutia (Sakha Republic), a search is underway for a 59-year-old man who went missing while mushroom picking on the Namsky Highway on July 30th. The Yakutia Rescue Service, along with nine rescuers and four volunteers, are working tirelessly to locate the man, using a combination of ATVs, drones, and ground patrols to cover large areas.
The search, which began on July 31st at 10 AM, is taking place between the 39th and 40th kilometers on the Namsky Highway. Roman Radiontsev, the senior duty shift, assured that the search is ongoing without interruption. In an effort to increase efficiency, twelve additional Rescue Service employees from Yakutia have joined the search today, narrowing the search area and increasing the chances of finding the lost man.
The harsh environment of Yakutia, characterised by extreme cold, permafrost terrain, and remote settlements, poses significant risks for individuals who may wander away and become lost. This is particularly true for those suffering from dementia or mental health issues, who may experience confusion, disorientation, and impaired judgment.
To prevent such incidents, the Yakutia Rescue Service is urging relatives to keep a closer eye on people with dementia and mental health issues, and to implement precautions such as increased supervision, the use of tracking devices, community education, and creating safe, dementia-friendly environments.
Unfortunately, the Yakutia Rescue Service often faces the misuse of time and resources due to alcohol-related incidents. In some cases, missing persons have been found to be at home, under the influence of alcohol, after hours of search. This unacceptable practice diverts resources from those in genuine need of help.
As the search continues, the Yakutia Rescue Service urges the public to respect the importance of their work and to prioritise the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in their community.
- In the midst of the search, it's crucial to remind community members about the significance of mental health, especially when supervising individuals with dementia or mental health issues, as they may require science-based therapies-and-treatments to reduce the risk of getting lost.
- Post-rescue, it's imperative to prioritize health-and-wellness initiatives in Yakutia, addressing not only physical hazards but also mental health issues, to prevent future incidents and ensure a community that values both physical and mental well-being.
