Man missing after suspected crocodile attack in Sandakan river

 

A man is missing, suspected to have been attacked by a crocodile in the Kampung Sungai Batang Baru river. - File pic

SANDAKAN: A man is missing, suspected to have been attacked by a crocodile in the Kampung Sungai Batang Baru river today.

The victim, believed to be in his 50s, was reportedly scattering fertiliser into the river to begin his fish netting activity when the reptile struck.

Sandakan Fire and Rescue Station Chief, Senior Fire Superintendent Severinus@Mohd Nidzam Sainkui, said they received an emergency call regarding the incident at 5.40pm.

"A team of seven personnel, along with a fire engine and an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) unit, rushed to the scene, located three kilometres from the station, to conduct a search and rescue (SAR) operation.

"According to initial reports, a witness claimed that the victim was scattering fertiliser into the river when a crocodile suddenly attacked and dragged him away.

"Upon arrival, our team gathered information before initiating the SAR operation around the reported location," he said in a media statement today.

He added that the victim has yet to be found, and the SAR operation is still ongoing.

"Updates will be provided as the situation develops," he said. - NST