KOTA KINABALU: On Friday (Dec 27), villagers from Kampung Bilit, along the Kinabatangan River, discovered the body of a man, believed to be the victim of a crocodile attack. The body, identified as 40-year-old Masdi Sahar, was found around 1km from the location of the incident.
The Moment of Impact: Boat Capsizes and Attack Ensues
Masdi and three others were on a boat carrying belian wood when the vessel struck an unknown object and capsized. Three of the individuals managed to swim to the riverbank, but Masdi was heard screaming for help, saying he was being attacked by a crocodile. Sadly, the others were unable to help him.
Search and Rescue Team Mobilized Quickly
Upon being alerted at 1:35 pm on Thursday, a rescue team arrived at the scene at 2:45 pm. The operation included the Fire and Rescue Department, police, wildlife rangers, and local villagers, all working together to recover the victim’s body.
Further Investigation Launched into Incident
Masdi’s body was later handed over to the police for further investigation. According to early reports, Masdi and a friend had been fishing in the river when the attack took place.