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KOTA KINABALU — A family outing at Bundusan Beach, Kampung Bundusan Papar, turned into a heartbreaking tragedy when two boys drowned, one person went missing, and another was rescued by villagers.
The incident, which occurred yesterday evening around 5:38 pm, involved four victims. According to the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Centre, a 12-year-old boy was successfully rescued by alert villagers, but an eight-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy tragically lost their lives.
“One of the victims was found by villagers but was confirmed dead at the scene by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) officers. Another victim was found drowned at 6:56 pm,” the department’s spokesperson said in a statement today.
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Efforts to locate the fourth victim, a 48-year-old man, are still underway. The fire department, with assistance from local villagers, launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation to find the missing man.
Witnesses said the four individuals were bathing at the beach when the tragedy struck. The idyllic setting of Bundusan Beach, popular for its serene environment, became the site of a grim rescue mission as authorities raced against time to find the missing person.
Villagers who participated in the rescue showed immense bravery and quick thinking, managing to save one life despite the overwhelming circumstances.
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution while swimming at beaches, particularly during unpredictable weather or tidal conditions.
SAR efforts continue, with hopes of finding the missing man soon. Our thoughts are with the affected families during this challenging time.