Missing Belarusian Sisters Found Safe After Days of Search in Turkey’s Aladağlar Mountains

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Two Belarusian sisters who went missing while climbing in central Turkey’s Aladağlar mountain range have been found alive after a days-long search, local authorities confirmed on Wednesday. Valentino and Mariao Ivankova, 36-year-old twin sisters, were located safe and well following a frantic search operation that began after they failed to return to their base camp as scheduled.

The sisters had set off on Saturday, November 16, to climb Kızılkaya Peak, a challenging 3,771-meter (12,372-foot) mountain located in the Aladağlar range, which straddles the provinces of Niğde and Kayseri. They were expected to return to their camp by Monday, November 18, but when contact was lost, their families and the Belarusian Consulate alerted Turkish authorities, prompting an extensive search operation.

The search focused on the Sokullupınar route, which leads to Kızılkaya Peak and extends into the surrounding Emli Valley region. Teams from the Niğde Gendarmerie Search and Rescue (JAK) and Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), along with aerial support from a reconnaissance plane sent from Ankara, scoured the difficult terrain for days. Around 15 rescue personnel were involved in the operation, navigating the rugged landscape amid challenging weather conditions.

Authorities believe the sisters became disoriented during their climb, which may have delayed their return. Despite harsh weather and difficult terrain, rescue teams remained hopeful of a positive outcome, and their persistence paid off when the sisters were located on Wednesday.

Both Ivankova sisters were found in good condition and were able to walk on their own. Their timely rescue ended a tense few days for their families and authorities, who had feared for their safety due to the region's notoriously unpredictable weather and mountainous landscape.

"We are relieved to announce that the sisters have been found safe," said a spokesperson for Niğde’s Governor’s Office. "Thanks to the tireless efforts of our rescue teams, we have a happy outcome, and we are grateful for the assistance provided by the Belarusian Consulate and the continued support from the Turkish government."

The Ivankova sisters, experienced climbers, had planned a brief expedition to Kızılkaya Peak as part of their mountaineering adventure, but unforeseen challenges during their ascent led to the delay in their return. Despite the difficulties, their rescue marks a successful conclusion to what had become a race against time in the difficult and sometimes treacherous Aladağlar mountains.

As the search teams celebrate the successful recovery, the Ivankova family expressed their gratitude for the efforts of Turkish authorities. The sisters are expected to return home soon after a medical check-up.