MIRI: Fire and rescue teams were deployed early this morning after a 41-year-old man was reported missing in a forested area behind his home in Kampung Sepurau, Bekenu, triggering a multi-agency search and rescue operation.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 7.59 am from the Bekenu district police, reporting that the man, identified as Zaidi Talip, had gone missing in nearby woodland approximately 44km from Batu Niah.
A fire engine from the Batu Niah Fire and Rescue Station was mobilised within minutes, leaving the station at 8am and arriving at the scene at 8.44 am. The operation was led by PBK I Awang Azdwan Awang Sahari and supported by six personnel using a Toyota Hilux.
According to initial information, villagers began searching for Zaidi as early as 7.30 am, combing the forested area within a 200m radius behind his house. A total of 38 villagers were involved in the preliminary search before firefighters took over coordination on site.
Firefighters conducted a roll call and joint briefing with police at 9 am to determine the next course of action, including search patterns and safety protocols.
Zaidi, was last seen wearing black clothing and carrying a small bag and a water bottle. He is known to have asthma and anxiety, raising concerns about his condition as search efforts continued.
Four police officers were also involved in the operation alongside the fire and rescue team and villagers.
The search operation marked the first day of SAR efforts, with authorities urging the public to stay clear of the area to avoid hampering rescue work.
The case remains under active investigation and search efforts are ongoing.
