BINTULU, Nov 27: A search and rescue (SAR) operation is underway for three fishermen from Kampung Jabai and Kampung Sinong who are feared lost at sea since yesterday.
The trio, Shamsuddin Dahlan, 52, Mohd Syazwan Shamsuddin, 17, and Mohd Husaini Azman, 18, went out to sea by boat at 3am on Nov 26. They have not returned since.
According to a statement from Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Sarawak Bintulu zone, Shamsuddin’s wife reported that the victims usually leave at 3am and return around afternoon before proceeding to sell any catches.
However, they have failed to return home until today.
The victim would always fish around the Beting Nyabau (Patricia shoal) and Bintulu Kidurong area.
Yesterday, fellow fishermen and friends conducted a search but failed to locate the missing fisherman.
It was understood that Shamsuddin has about 10 years’ experience in fishing.
All the victims have life jackets and are able to swim.
Shamsuddin’s wife also informed the authorities that the boat had experienced engine problems before and was equipped with anchors and GPS.
She also failed to reach her husband’s mobile phone.
MMEA Sarawak Bintulu zone chief Captain Shahref Steve Mac Queen Abdullah said the agency launched SAR operations for the trio today.
The search covers about 10 nautical miles from the waters of Beting Nyabau and Bintulu Kidurong.
MMEA have also requested assistance from the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) and Civil Defence Force (APM) in the SAR. — DayakDaily
