KOTA KINABALU – The tragic end to a search and rescue operation in Kampung Balit, Kinabatangan, unfolded early this morning when the body of 40-year-old Maznin Kahar was discovered following a crocodile attack.
According to a spokesman for the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), the victim’s remains were found around 6 a.m., approximately one kilometre from the site of the reported attack. The public initially spotted the body, which was later handed over to the police for further investigations.
The incident, which occurred at about 1:00 a.m. the previous day, began when Maznin and three colleagues were transporting purchased timber by boat. The boat, reportedly overloaded, struck an object, causing it to capsize. While his three companions managed to escape to safety, Maznin was left struggling in the water.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that Maznin called for help, reporting that he was being attacked by a crocodile. Despite desperate attempts by his friends, they were unable to save him.
The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department was alerted to the incident at 1:35 p.m. on the same day and immediately dispatched a team from the Kinabatangan Fire and Rescue Station to conduct a search and rescue (SAR) operation. Police personnel, villagers, and local boat owners also joined forces in the search.
The SAR operation, which was carried out under challenging conditions, was called off following the recovery of Maznin’s body.
This incident has raised concerns about the risks posed by crocodiles in the area, particularly for those whose livelihoods depend on riverine activities. Residents are urged to exercise extra caution when operating along crocodile-infested waters.
