A 25-year-old man who was reported missing while attempting to cross a river in Kampung Lebak Engad, Kota Belud, was found drowned on Thursday after an overnight search operation.
The victim was believed to have disappeared on Wednesday while crossing the river, prompting emergency authorities to launch a search and rescue (SAR) operation in the area. Despite extensive efforts on the first day, rescue teams were unable to locate him.
Kota Belud Fire and Rescue Station chief Elge Bakuk said the department received an emergency call regarding the incident at 1.18pm before firefighters were dispatched to gather information and begin the search operation.
The search resumed on Thursday, with rescuers combing the riverbanks in the hope of locating the missing man. At around 6.15pm, members of the public discovered his body approximately 150 metres from the spot where he was believed to have entered the water.
The discovery brought the search operation to a close, highlighting the dangers posed by river crossings, particularly during uncertain water conditions.
The victim’s body was subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation and the necessary procedures.
