KOTA KINABALU: Tragedy struck Kampung Cenderakasih when four more bodies were discovered in a landslide incident today, raising the total death toll to five.
According to the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), the search and rescue team, assisted by villagers, is still combing the debris for two more individuals who are believed to be trapped.
“A total of 11 victims were reported to be involved in the landslide. Four managed to escape safely while our team has so far confirmed five fatalities,” said a JBPM spokesman when contacted.
He explained that the department received a distress call regarding the landslide at 10.02 am, and a team from the Lintas Fire and Rescue Station reached the location at 10.24 am.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid gathering near the affected area as the ground remains unstable and poses further danger. Residents nearby have also been reminded to stay alert and follow safety precautions.
In a separate case, another landslide occurred at Kampung Marahang Tuntul, near Papar, earlier this morning. The incident crushed a house, burying three individuals inside.
Sabah JBPM confirmed that two of the victims were found by rescuers, but their condition has yet to be determined.
“Efforts to free the victim are still ongoing, while another person remains missing,” the department stated.
The Papar Fire and Rescue Station dispatched 16 personnel to the site following a distress call received at 9.20 am. The affected house was located about 13 kilometres from the station.
Both incidents highlight the urgent need for heightened awareness and preparedness during the current weather conditions, as heavy rainfall increases the risk of landslides across Sabah. — Bernama
