LUNDU: A search and rescue (SAR) operation has been launched at Sungai Kampung Rayu after an elderly woman is feared to have been devoured by a crocodile while searching for clams yesterday (Apr 17).
The victim, identified as 76-year-old Minu Khien, was reported to have gone to the river with her 54-year-old daughter to gather clams around 8 am.
According to Lundu police chief DSP Damataries Lautin, the daughter heard her mother’s screams for help and rushed to her aid, only to find her missing.
“The daughter promptly rushed home in Kampung Sungai Belian and informed other family members of the incident.
“During the initial search conducted by the family, traces of blood were discovered about 500 metres from the Kampung Sungai Rayu bridge, and the victim’s clothing found some 200 metres downstream.
“The family believes that Minu was attacked and dragged into the river by a crocodile, given the area’s reputation for crocodile presence,” he said in a statement.
At the time of writing, the search is still ongoing to locate Minu.
The operation involves personnel from the police, firefighters from Petra Jaya station, the Fire and Rescue Department’s (Bomba) Safety Water and Rescue Team (SWART) and the villagers.
In addition, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has been notified of the incident.
