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DEVELOPING STORY: 5 people dead as volcano erupts in New Zealand

Five people were left dead after a volcano in New Zealand erupted at 01:11 GMT (9:11 a.m. Monday, PH Time).

According to a report by BBC, the tourists were seen walking inside the crater of White Island volcano moments before the eruption.

Police said there were 23 people rescued but conditions there are hampering the operation.

Deputy Police Commissioner John Tims said in a police briefing that the risks have prevented emergency services to access the island.

White Island, also known as Whakaari, is one of New Zealand’s active volcanoes. It is a privately-owned island that has been a tourist destination with frequent day tours and scenic flights available.

It remains unclear, as of this writing, as to the exact number of people there. The five people who died were rescued earlier in the day.

Some of those who visited the island are passengers from the cruise ship Ovation of the Seas, owned by Royal Caribbean.

The New Zealand Defence Force is now helping with the rescue operation.

Staff Report

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