ULU BARAM: An octogenarian was discovered drowned near the Selongo river in Kampung Leo Mato here today (Dec 16).
The Marudi Fire and Rescue Department reported that they received an urgent call at 9.05 am on Thursday (Dec 14) from the Marudi District Police concerning 81-year-old Sirang Bilong, who was feared to have drowned in the river.
“Based on the information obtained, the incident area is quite far in the interior of Ulu Baram. Access to the location is only through logging roads. Most of the roads are damaged due to rain and require suitable vehicles (offroad),” the department said.
As the search and rescue operation entered its second day today (Dec 16) at 8.00 am, a comprehensive briefing and search strategy were devised by the collaborative efforts of the police and fire department.
“The operation focused on a 10km stretch along the river, concentrating on the area where the victim’s belongings—a dog, jeans, and a boat—were discovered.
“The turning point came at 9.05 am when the Search and Rescue (SaR) team found the body of Sirang Bilong, in good condition, 5km upstream near the mouth of the Selongo river,” it added.
Despite the option for a post-mortem examination, the family opted against it. The victim’s body was taken by the family to the longhouse and is scheduled for burial tomorrow.
