KANOWIT: The body of a man, who was swept away by strong currents after the durian-laden boat he was on capsized in Sungai Kanowit on Monday (Nov 27), was discovered early Wednesday (Nov 29).
A spokesperson for the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) said rescuers located the victim, 55-year-old Nabau Antas, around 9.20am, approximately 12km away from the site where the boat capsized.
Following the discovery, the body was transported to Pengkalan Majau for family confirmation and subsequently handed over to the police for further action. The rescue operation concluded at 10.15am.
The tragic incident occurred around 9.45am in front of Rh Andau, Jalan Bukong Jagoi in Bunut.
Prior to the capsizing, a married couple, who were on their way back from their farm by boat, crossed paths with the durian-laden boat carrying the victim and his friend along the same route.
Shortly after passing the couple’s boat, screams for help were heard. The couple witnessed the victim’s boat sinking approximately 17m from the riverbank.
Responding swiftly, the witnesses managed to save one person who was clinging to the boat at the time, while the other was swept away by strong currents.
The survivor, a 72-year-old man, was promptly taken to the hospital for treatment by his children.
Firefighters from Kanowit station, along with the police and Civil Defence Force (APM), were alerted to the incident and initiated a search and rescue operation.
