BINTULU – A seven-year-old boy tragically drowned after he is believed to have fallen into a ditch along Jalan Sebaru here last night.
The victim, identified as Ricky Peter Bandang, was discovered lifeless about two metres from where his clothes were earlier found by the search team. The body was recovered at around 9.30pm.
According to a spokesperson for the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Centre, an emergency call was received at 8.45pm. A team from the Bintulu Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) was immediately dispatched to the scene, which is about six kilometres from their station.
“Upon arrival, our team began a surface water search operation in the ditch. The search did not take long before the victim was located,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
Medical personnel from the Ministry of Health (KKM) later confirmed that the boy had died at the location. His body was subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation and necessary procedures.
The search and rescue operation ended at 10.07pm.
This tragic incident has left the local community in shock, as many expressed their condolences to the grieving family. Cases of children falling into drains, rivers, and ditches have raised concerns in Sarawak, with authorities often reminding parents and guardians to be extra vigilant, especially in areas close to waterways.
The authorities also urge members of the public to immediately report any incidents involving children near dangerous areas to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
This heartbreaking case in Bintulu once again highlights the importance of child safety awareness and the need for extra care around open water sources.
