A renowned thrill-seeker dubbed as “The Spider-Man of Yemen” has met a tragic end following a failed stunt.
Al-Qaqa Ibn Antar, aged 30, was scaling the steep walls of the Hardah Dam volcanic crater in the southern Dhale province last Friday when he slipped and plummeted into the 120-meter (393-foot) crater below. Authorities disclosed that he was endeavoring the ascent without any safety gear.
The Civil Defense Authority shared a brief video capturing the moment of his fall. The footage, lasting 10 seconds, depicts Antar climbing a rocky cliff sans any protective equipment. Arabic inscriptions adorn the cliff face he was ascending. He can be seen gripping the cliff with his right hand, left hand raised, before losing his hold and falling.
Rescue teams, including diving and water specialists, were dispatched to recover Antar’s body. Divers located his remains at a depth of 30 meters (100 feet) beneath the water surface. The authority described the four-hour search and rescue mission as “challenging” due to the rugged and rocky terrain, making accessibility arduous.
The Hardah Dam, also known as the Haradhat Damt, is an exceptional volcanic crater situated near Damt city in Yemen’s southern Dahle province. Serving as a regional landmark, the crater features steep rocky walls enclosing a hot sulfurous lake at its base.
Antar had garnered fame on social media platforms by sharing videos showcasing his daring ascents of Yemen’s rugged landscapes. His high-risk exploits often went viral. In one video, he was seen hanging from a rocky cliff edge using only his bare hands, with his legs dangling over a steep slope in a hazardous display without safety equipment.
The Civil Defense Authority has advised climbers and adventure enthusiasts to adhere to safety protocols and issued a caution to utilize “appropriate protective gear to prevent similar incidents.”
