A man disappeared hunting in the jungle of Emperor Jambu Village

KUCHING, Oct 9: A 53-year-old man was reported missing after going out hunting alone in a wooded area near Emperoh Jambu Village, Padawan Road, here on Wednesday.

The victim, Christie Fidelis Batest, has yet to be found as of the first day of search and rescue (SAR) operations conducted on Friday.

According to preliminary information, the victim left his home around 7.30pm on Wednesday for hunting in a wooded area behind his cousin's house, about three kilometers from his residence.

According to the Operations Movement Centre (PGO) of the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Sarawak, the victim is believed to have carried a broken rifle while out hunting.

"His blue Modenas motorcycle, later found in the area.

"The victim's loss was recognized when he did not return home until 5 p.m. on Thursday", according to the statement.

The victim's sister, Marthia Batest, then tried to locate her brother in the area and questioned a neighbor, but no leads were found.

A police report on the missing victim was made at the Precinct Police Department at 9:31 p.m., Thursday.

A team from the Siburan Fire and Rescue Department (BBP) arrived at the scene at 9.38 am on Friday morning to obtain further information and await police instructions regarding SAR operation.

The first day's operation involved eight members of BBP Siburan with the help of a CFRT engine and a Hilux-type four-wheeled racing vehicle.

Following were members of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Simpok Volunteer Bomb Squad (PBS) and villagers to assist in the search. -TVS