Al-Qaqa Ibn Antar, a Yemeni climber known as "The Spider-Man of Yemen," died after falling into a volcanic crater while attempting a risky ascent without safety equipment. The 30-year-old was climbing the steep rock faces of the Hardah Dam volcanic crater in the southern province of Dhale on Friday when he lost his grip and fell into the 393-foot deep crater, according to the Civil Defense Authority.
A video released by the Civil Defense shows Antar scaling the rocky cliff unaided. The footage captures him gripping the rock with one hand while raising the other before he slips and falls into the crater. The Hardah Dam, also referred to as Haradhat Damt, is a well-known natural landmark near the city of Damt in Dhale province, featuring steep cliffs and a sulfurous lake at its base.
Rescue teams, including diving and water specialists, conducted a four-hour operation to recover Antar's body, which was located by divers 100 feet below the crater's lake surface. The Civil Defense Authority described the recovery effort as complex due to the challenging terrain and difficult access conditions.
Antar had gained recognition on social media for videos showcasing his daring climbs of Yemen’s rugged landscapes, often performing without protective gear. One widely shared video showed him hanging by his bare hands over a steep drop, emphasizing the hazardous nature of his stunts.
In response to the incident, the Civil Defense Authority issued a cautionary statement urging climbers and adventure enthusiasts to adhere to safety protocols and use appropriate protective equipment to prevent similar tragedies.
