The missing individual is Nguyen Tuan Anh, 19, a student at Dai Nam University and a resident of Dinh Cong ward, Hanoi. According to initial information, he lost contact with his family around 6 PM on 19/4 while climbing with friends in Vinh Ninh village, Dao Tru commune.

The group started from the foot of Doc Rit mountain earlier that morning. Given the complex mountainous terrain, the student likely became disoriented during their trek.

Male student missing while mountain climbing in Tam Dao. Photo: Dao Tru Commune People's Committee

Mr. Luu Xuan Nam, Vice Chairman of the Dao Tru Commune People's Committee, stated that local authorities deployed over 100 searchers. This force includes police, military, medical staff, and residents. Teams use drones fitted with thermal cameras for wide-area scans, focusing on dense forests and rugged terrain.

Commune leaders have been at the scene since the evening of 19/4, directing search efforts. Teams are racing against time, coordinating closely to find the student and ensure public safety.

Tam Dao, a popular trekking and mountain climbing destination in northern Vietnam, is located about 70 km from Hanoi. Its terrain features dense forests, steep slopes, cliffs, and a complex trail network, which can disorient those unfamiliar with the area. Common routes begin at the mountain's base, passing landmarks such as the TV tower, Rung Rinh peak, or Bac waterfall.

However, Tam Dao's dense forests and rapidly changing weather often result in thick fog and limited visibility, especially in the late afternoon. Phone signals are weak or absent in some less-frequented areas, hindering communication during emergencies. Many tourists have previously gotten lost trekking independently or without a guide.

Local authorities advise residents and tourists climbing Tam Dao to carry navigation and communication equipment, travel in groups, inform others of their itinerary, and avoid moving in bad weather for safety.

Gia Chinh