The driver of a boat that capsized in the waters off Pulau Perhentian in Terengganu last night - an incident that left three dead, including two children - has been arrested after testing positive for drugs.
Besut police chief Azamuddin Ahmad said that based on the investigation, all of them were not wearing life jackets.
He said the boat driver, in his 20s, has been detained to assist in the investigation. The boat driver, who is a local, has five records for drug-related offences.
He advised the public to prioritise the safety of their family members while at resort beaches.
Boat operators, he said, should also prioritise tourist safety and comply with all regulations, especially regarding the mandatory use of life jackets.
According to Bernama, Azamuddin said two girls, aged three and 10, were among those killed.
He identified the deceased as S Arumugam, 40, his three-year-old daughter A Sarrvihka, and a 10-year-old relative, V Vennpani.
He said 12 others in the boat, including a six-year-old who was in critical condition, were rushed to Besut Hospital for treatment.
The boat, carrying 15 passengers, aged between three and 40 years, capsized during a storm, heavy rain and rough seas.
Sinar Harian quoted Terengganu Maritime Director Hamiludin Che Awang as stating that they received information about the incident from the Kuantan Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre (MRSC) at 10.55pm, before a search and rescue operation was activated at 11.17pm.
“A Malaysian Maritime patrol boat was immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, all victims had already been rescued by villagers who acted swiftly to provide initial assistance,” he said. - Mkini

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