SIMANGGANG: Residents of Kampung Melayu Skait were startled on Monday morning after a car was discovered submerged in a river near the village. The unexpected sight quickly drew attention from locals and prompted an emergency response, raising early concerns that the incident could have involved casualties.
According to a media statement issued by the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department Operations Centre, an emergency call was received directly by the Sri Aman Fire and Rescue Station at 10.48 am. Members of the public alerted authorities after noticing the vehicle in the river and fearing that someone might be trapped inside.
Operations Commander Elijah Tiyit said a team of seven fire and rescue personnel was immediately dispatched to the scene. The team arrived with a Fire Rescue Tender and an Emergency Medical Services unit to assess the situation and carry out rescue operations if needed.
Upon reaching the location, firefighters found the car submerged in the river, approximately 30 metres downstream from the point where it was believed to have fallen. The vehicle was carefully inspected by the rescue team to check for any occupants or signs of victims inside.
“After a thorough inspection, our team confirmed that there were no victims found in the vehicle,” Elijah said in the statement released today. The confirmation brought relief to residents who had gathered near the riverbank, anxiously waiting for updates from the authorities.
As part of standard operating procedures, the operations team did not stop at inspecting the vehicle alone. Firefighters also conducted a detailed search along the nearby riverbank and surrounding area. This was done to ensure that no individuals had been thrown out of the vehicle or swept away by the river current during the incident.
The Royal Malaysian Police were also present at the scene to assist with traffic control, safety measures, and preliminary investigations. Police officers are expected to look into the circumstances that led to the car ending up in the river, including whether it was due to an accident, mechanical failure, or other factors.
After confirming that the area was safe and that no victims were involved, the operation was officially called off. Authorities advised the public to remain cautious, especially when driving near riverbanks and rural roads, which can be narrow and slippery, particularly after rain.
