It seems there are three different scenarios at play here.
1. Genuinely has attempted to make a journey which even the most experienced local wouldn’t attempt and has sadly had an accident at some point.
2. He’s gotten himself involved with the wrong people been taken on a one way trip up the mountains.
3. It’s a big scam and he’s hiding out somewhere whilst money is being raised on his behalf.
After speaking to a couple of people last night and this morning over there I’m kinda edging towards number 2 at this point but in all honesty who the fuck knows in this day and age. All 3 seem possible.