KAPIT, Jan 6: A search-and-rescue (SAR) operation has been initiated to locate 38-year-old Henry Laing Ngau, a worker at Suau Camp in Baleh, who went missing after entering the forest on the night of Jan 4.
The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) revealed that Henry was last seen heading into the forest around 9pm and has not returned since.
In a statement, Bomba confirmed that they received a distress call at 1pm today regarding the worker’s disappearance.
“Personnel from the Kapit fire station, alongside a police team, are currently on their way to the location, which is about 136 kilometres from the fire station,” the statement read.
The SAR team is expected to face challenging conditions given the remote location and rugged terrain of Baleh. Forested areas like this are known for their dense vegetation, making rescue efforts more complex.
Henry’s colleagues reported that he left the camp to enter the forest for undisclosed reasons and became unreachable. Authorities are urging residents nearby to provide any information that might assist in the search.
Family members and co-workers are deeply concerned about Henry’s safety, given the potential hazards in the forest, including unpredictable weather and wildlife.
The SAR team has assured that they will work tirelessly to locate Henry. Updates on the operation will be provided as more information becomes available.
The community is rallying in support of the search efforts, hoping for Henry’s safe return.