RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Rescue teams in Bali turned to the skies on Thursday, April 23, 2026, deploying a helicopter to save two Russian nationals trapped beneath the cliffs of Cemongkak Beach, Pecatu, Badung. The dramatic airlift brought the pair to safety just as rising waves threatened their position.

The Bali Search and Rescue (Basarnas) Office confirmed that Sergei Starostin, 51, and Diana Zolotova, 20, were successfully evacuated and landed at SGi Air Bali’s hellyport around 3:15 p.m. local time.

“Both victims were rescued without major complications, though one sustained minor injuries,” Basarnas Bali Chief I Nyoman Sidakarya said in Denpasar, as quoted by Antara.

The operation began after a staff member from El Kabron beach club alerted authorities at 1:10 p.m., reporting that two foreigners had been stranded since late morning. With the tide rising and the victims positioned far below the cliff, Basarnas quickly mobilized eight personnel and decided on an aerial rescue.

A helicopter carrying five crew members lifted off from Benoa hellyport at 2:46 p.m. and reached the site within 12 minutes. Using a hoist system, rescuers pulled the victims up one by one.

Starostin suffered minor cuts to his leg and left elbow, likely from being thrown against rocks while attempting to swim back to shore. Both victims declined hospital treatment, receiving only basic wound care from Nusa Medika Clinic staff.

Authorities believe the pair had entered the beach wearing life jackets but were overwhelmed by strong waves.

The rescue effort involved coordination between Basarnas Bali, South Kuta Police, local water patrol units, Balawista lifeguards, medical teams, beach club staff, and community members. Sidakarya emphasized the urgency of the operation, noting that rising seas made swift action essential. ***