KAPIT: The search and rescue (SAR) operation for a longhouse resident, who was reported missing near a forest at Rumah Tiso, Nanga Merit, is ongoing.
Kapit fire and rescue station (BBP) chief Erwandy Tugor said the operation on the second day was extended from 10km to 20km outwards.
“The villagers who are involved in the operation have also found signs of disturbance which suggested that the victim had been through the area,” he said when contacted on Saturday.
Erwandy said on Wednesday, the victim identified as 50-year-old Lega Ikok was hunting alone and believed to be collecting rattan in the forest.
“He promised to return home by noon and was last seen wearing a black shirt and trousers before leaving the house. Earlier on, he had complained of chest pain,” he stated.
The SAR operation also involves personnel from the police, Civil Defence Force (APM), and several longhouse folk.
Nanga Merit is about four hours’ journey by road from Kapit.
It was reported that the SAR team stayed overnight to continue the SAR operation, hoping to find more clues as to the victim’s whereabouts.
Updates on the status of the operation from the search team, however, is not possible because telecommunication is non-existent in the search area.
