SANDAKAN – A missing fisherman, feared to have been attacked by a crocodile, was found dead in the river near Taman Kenari, Batu 7, this afternoon. The tragedy unfolded after his empty boat, bearing crocodile bite marks, was discovered along the riverbank.
The victim, identified as Obing Markum and believed to be in his 30s, was reported missing yesterday evening after he failed to return from a fishing trip. According to Sandakan Fire and Rescue Station chief Jimmy Lagung, his body was recovered at 2.10pm today—approximately one kilometre from where his boat was found.
Obing had reportedly gone fishing around 6pm on Monday. His boat was later spotted abandoned, raising immediate concerns among villagers familiar with the crocodile-infested river. Upon closer inspection, signs of a crocodile attack became evident, prompting authorities to launch a full-scale search and rescue operation (SAR).
“The SAR operation began at 8.57am today and involved the Fire and Rescue Department, the Wildlife Department, Civil Defence Force, Marine Police, and local villagers,” said Jimmy in a press statement.
The deceased, who was a foreign national, was retrieved from the river and taken to Sandakan Hospital for post-mortem and further procedures. The search operation officially ended at 3.40pm.
Local authorities have reminded residents and fishermen to be extra cautious when venturing near crocodile-prone waters, especially during early mornings or evenings when such predators are most active.
This tragic incident is yet another grim reminder of the dangers lurking in Sabah’s rivers, where crocodile encounters are not uncommon.
