A Croatian climber who fell on Mount Kinabalu last Saturday was safely brought down to Timpohon Gate tonight after a challenging five-day search and rescue (SAR) operation.
Mauro Persic, 46, arrived at the gate at 7.06pm and received initial treatment from medical personnel from the Health Ministry.
Ranau Fire and Rescue Station chief Assistant Fire Superintendent Rantey Fred said Persic suffered injuries to his leg and right ribs, as well as minor cuts to his hands.
He said the operation to bring Persic down resumed at 7.07am today, with rescuers navigating a difficult 2km to 3km stretch.
“The SAR team transported the victim in stages until reaching the Km 6.5 Platform at 3.21pm.
“The victim was then carried from Panalaban to Timpohon Gate using a body harness carrier,” Rantey said in a statement tonight.
He added that the rescuers encountered rain when they were about 1.8km from the platform, further complicating the operation.
Persic was later taken to Ranau Hospital by ambulance at 7.22pm under police escort for further medical treatment.
“All SAR personnel arrived safely at Timpohon Gate, and the operation was fully concluded at 8pm,” Rantey said.
The five-team operation involved 43 personnel from the Fire and Rescue Department, ParkSAR, mountain guides, porters and park rangers.
Persic reportedly fell down a cliff on Mount Kinabalu last Saturday, prompting the SAR operation after a distress call was received at 5.10pm.
