MIRI: A 41-year-old man who went missing while hunting in the forest behind his home in Kampung Sepurau, Bekenu, was found dead this morning, just 150 metres from his house.
The body of the victim, identified as Zaidi Talip, was discovered at about 10.40 am by a joint search and rescue team involving the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), police, health authorities and villagers.
He had been missing since Sunday night (Jan 25).
Bomba official said the operation was launched after police received a call at 7.59 am from Bekenu Police Station.
A fire engine left Batu Niah station immediately after the distress call and reached the location at 8.44 am.
Initial information indicated that Zaidi left home at about 8.30 pm on Sunday to hunt in the nearby forest. He did not return.
His wife managed to contact him briefly on Monday, but the call went unanswered. Subsequent attempts to reach him on Tuesday and Wednesday failed.
By Wednesday morning, concern escalated. About 38 villagers had already begun searching the forested area behind the victim’s house, covering a radius of about 200 metres.
A coordination briefing between Bomba personnel and police was held at 9.00 am before a structured search was initiated.
The victim was located less than two hours later. Medical personnel confirmed Zaidi’s death at 12.40 pm.
Police forensic officers arrived at the scene at 1.00 pm to conduct investigations.
Firefighters then assisted in recovering the body, which was handed over to police at 1.20 pm for further action.
Zaidi was reported to have asthma and anxiety. He was last seen wearing black clothing and carrying a small bag and water bottle.
The search and rescue operation was officially closed at 2.30 pm by police. Bomba personnel returned to base after ensuring the area was safe.
A total of 56 personnel and volunteers were involved in the operation, including police, the Civil Defence Force, health officers and local residents.
