SARIKEI, Feb 24: A search and rescue (SAR) operation has been launched to locate a 69-year-old man who went missing from Rumah Luang Empaong, Sarikei. The elderly man, identified as Kamoi Paun, has not been seen since he left his longhouse early Sunday morning (Feb 23).
According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), they received a distress call at 9.56am today, prompting the immediate deployment of a search team from the Sarikei fire station. Concern is mounting as the victim suffers from high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues, increasing the urgency of the search.
Last Seen on the Way to Market
Kamoi Paun was last seen at around 8am on Sunday, leaving his longhouse for the market in Roban. When he failed to return home, his worried family members lodged a police report today, triggering the SAR operation.
At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a black short-sleeved shirt and black shorts. Authorities and local residents have been scouring the area within a 1km radius from where he was last spotted.
Search Efforts Suspended Due to Darkness
The search mission, which involved Bomba personnel and longhouse residents, continued throughout the day but was temporarily halted at 6.10pm due to safety concerns and low visibility. The SAR operation is set to resume tomorrow (Feb 25) with renewed efforts to locate the missing man.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information about Kamoi Paun’s whereabouts to come forward and assist in the search. Family members remain hopeful that he will be found safe.
