DARO: The search and rescue (SAR) operation for a 14-year-old boy believed to have been mauled by a crocodile at Jeti Sungai Kelai, Rumah Panjang Jingga, Pulau Bruit, concluded today after authorities were unable to locate the victim.
The operation, which lasted seven days, officially ended at 4.10 pm following a meeting with all relevant agencies, family members of the victim, and local villagers. The decision came after extensive efforts yielded no sign of the missing teenager, Agustine Fernando Nyalong, a Form Two student at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Semop.
According to a statement from the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Centre (PGO), the final day of the search began at 9.00 am, involving multiple security agencies and the local community. The search focused on the vicinity of the incident, extending towards Kampung Sebako. Traps and snares were set in the river and surrounding areas in the hope of catching the crocodile believed responsible, but none were successful.
The operation was hampered by persistent heavy rain and turbulent river conditions, which made the search extremely challenging. Despite the combined efforts of SAR teams, villagers, and authorities, no trace of the victim was found.
The incident occurred last Friday when Agustine was reported missing after allegedly being attacked by a crocodile while at the river jetty. His disappearance was witnessed by a friend, prompting the villagers to alert the authorities immediately. The tragic event has left the local community in shock, mourning the loss of a young life.
JBPM expressed gratitude for the cooperation of all agencies and villagers involved in the search and emphasised the dangers posed by crocodile habitats along Pulau Bruit’s rivers. The department also reminded residents and visitors to exercise caution near waterways known to be frequented by crocodiles.
Agustine’s family and the village community have been offered support during this difficult time, as Pulau Bruit comes to terms with the tragic outcome.
