A renowned adventurer dubbed as “The Spider-Man of Yemen” has tragically passed away following a failed stunt.
Al-Qaqa Ibn Antar, aged 30, met his demise while attempting to climb the steep walls of the Hardah Dam volcanic crater in the southern Dhale province. Authorities reported that Antar was endeavoring to ascend vertical rock faces without any safety gear when he slipped and fell into the 120-meter (393 feet) deep crater.
The Civil Defense Authority shared a brief video capturing the moment of his fall. The footage, lasting for 10 seconds, depicts Antar climbing a rocky cliff without any safety precautions. The cliff features Arabic inscriptions written in white, and Antar is seen grasping the cliff with his right hand while his left hand is raised before losing his grip and plummeting.
Following the incident, rescue teams, including diving and water specialists, were dispatched to recover Antar’s body. Divers located his body at a depth of 30 meters (100 feet) beneath the water surface after a four-hour search and rescue operation described as “complex” due to the challenging terrain.
Situated near Damt city in Yemen’s southern Dahle province, the Hardah Dam, also known as the Haradhat Damt, is a distinctive volcanic crater with steep rocky walls and a sulfurous lake at its base, serving as a prominent landmark in the region.
Antar had garnered fame on social media platforms for sharing videos of his high-risk ascents in Yemen’s rugged terrains. His viral videos showcased daring feats, including hanging from a cliff edge using only his bare hands, emphasizing the perilous nature of his adventures without safety equipment.
In response to the tragic incident, the Civil Defense Authority emphasized the importance of adhering to safety protocols for climbers and adventure enthusiasts, urging the use of appropriate protective gear to prevent similar accidents.