A weekend outing ended in tragedy after two teenage cousins were found unconscious in a quarry pool at Kampung Gum-Gum, Jalan Kuari 5, on Sunday evening.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 5.30pm, involved two female teenagers aged 17 and 15. Both were believed to have gotten into difficulty while swimming in the quarry pool before being discovered by rescuers.
According to Sandakan Fire and Rescue Station chief Jimmy Lagung, emergency services received a distress call at 5.31pm and immediately deployed a team of seven firefighters to the scene, located about 27 kilometres from the station.
He said initial reports indicated that both victims were suspected to have drowned while bathing in the quarry pool. The younger victim, aged 15, was located by members of the public, while the 17-year-old, who was her elder cousin, was later found through a joint effort involving firefighters and bystanders.
Both girls were reportedly unconscious when they were pulled from the water. The victims were subsequently rushed to hospital for further medical treatment and assessment.
The heartbreaking incident has once again highlighted concerns over the dangers of swimming in abandoned quarry pools, which can pose hidden risks despite appearing calm on the surface. Authorities said further updates regarding the case will be provided as more information becomes available.
Jimmy added that investigations and follow-up actions are ongoing, with officials continuing to gather details surrounding the incident.