Search continues for missing Myanmar national in Sarikei

SARIKEI (Oct 23): The search and rescue (SAR) operation for a foreign ship crew member who went missing after falling into the Rajang River yesterday entered its second day today.

The victim, identified as 45-year-old Min Wai Lin from Myanmar, was reported to have fallen from a ship docked at a jetty near Taman Susur Jambu.

The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) said today’s operation commenced at 9.34am.

“The SAR team, comprising 26 personnel, is combing the river within a 5km-radius from the last known location of the victim,” Bomba said in a statement.

The department received a call about the incident at 9.30am yesterday and despatched firefighters from the Sarikei fire station to the scene.

According to information provided, a vessel from Kuching arrived at the jetty at 6.12am to unload rocks.

“Before reaching the jetty, two crew members informed the captain that a co-worker had fallen into the river.

“They attempted to rescue the victim using life-saving equipment but were unsuccessful,” added Bomba.