Tatau Croc Attack: Search for Little Cicilia Julan Intik Enters Third Day
BINTULU (Sept 20) – The search and rescue (SAR) operation for six-year-old Cicilia Julan Intik, who was attacked by a crocodile while bathing in Sungai Annap, Tatau, has entered its third day. The young girl, who was playing in the river with her grandfather and two friends, was suddenly dragged under the water by the reptile. Despite the immediate efforts of her family and local residents, Cicilia remains missing.
Rescue Teams Intensify Efforts as SAR Enters Day Three
Early Morning Search Resumes in Sungai Annap
At 8:03 am this morning, the search operation resumed, with personnel from various agencies gathering at the riverbank to continue their mission. The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Operations Centre confirmed that five personnel were dispatched to the site. The briefing for all agencies involved was carried out shortly after, coordinating the various groups to ensure maximum coverage of the search areas.
The spokesperson for Bomba stated, “A briefing on the SAR operation for all agencies present at the location is currently being conducted before the search resumes in Sungai Annap, Tatau.”
Key Agencies and Community Support
In addition to Bomba, the SAR operation has been bolstered by the participation of multiple agencies, including the Royal Malaysian Police, Civil Defence Force (APM), and Sarawak Forestry Corporation Bintulu. Local residents have also joined the search, offering their knowledge of the area to assist the rescue teams.
“We have seen a significant effort from the community, and their support has been vital in covering the vast river areas that need to be searched,” said one local officer. The search area includes various segments of the river, which present significant challenges due to their size and complexity.
Expanding the Search Area
Search Radius Extends to 2km
On the second day of the operation, the SAR team extended the search radius to cover a 2km area from the spot where Cicilia was last seen. The team conducted extensive patrols along Sungai Sap, Sungai Jelai, and the old Tatau bazaar river in the morning, and then expanded to Sungai Kara, Sungai Pulau Pinang, and Sungai Tatau in the afternoon.
Despite thorough efforts, no significant clues have been found yet. The SAR team remains hopeful and committed to finding the young girl, with plans to further expand the search area if necessary.
Challenges of Riverine SAR Operations
The operation has faced considerable challenges, with Sungai Annap’s fast currents and dense vegetation complicating the search efforts. Crocodile attacks are rare but not unheard of in Sarawak’s river systems, where these reptiles are known to inhabit.
A local resident shared, “We are familiar with the risks of the river, but this tragedy has shaken our community deeply. We are praying for Cicilia’s safe return, and we will continue to help in any way we can.”
Safety Measures and Public Warnings
Increased Awareness in Tatau
In the wake of this attack, authorities have urged local communities to exercise caution when near the rivers in Tatau. Crocodile sightings have been reported in the area before, though this is the first incident in recent memory involving a child. Sarawak’s rivers are known habitats for crocodiles, and many rural communities rely on these waterways for daily activities, including fishing and bathing.
Officials have issued warnings to families, advising them to avoid the riverbanks, especially during dawn and dusk when crocodile activity is believed to be more frequent.
Ongoing Vigilance by Authorities
Sarawak Forestry Corporation Bintulu has been monitoring crocodile movements in the region. As part of their efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict, the corporation has been conducting crocodile awareness campaigns in vulnerable communities.
“We have always been cautious, but now we will double our efforts to ensure that such incidents are minimized in the future. Public awareness and preventive measures are crucial in these areas,” said a representative from the Sarawak Forestry Corporation.
The Community’s Hope for Cicilia’s Safe Return
Emotional Toll on Family and Community
As the search enters its third day, the emotional toll on Cicilia’s family and the Tatau community is palpable. The community remains hopeful but understands the difficulty of the situation. Cicilia’s grandfather, who was with her during the attack, is heartbroken but continues to believe that his granddaughter will be found.
“We are devastated, but we hold onto hope. The rescue teams are doing everything they can, and we are so grateful for their help,” said a family member.
Conclusion
As the search for little Cicilia Julan Intik continues, the local community in Tatau and rescue agencies remain united in their determination to bring her home. The operation has highlighted the risks associated with living near riverine areas in Sarawak, underscoring the need for increased awareness and safety measures.
The SAR teams have pledged to continue their efforts until Cicilia is found, and the community will be watching closely, praying for her safe return.