MIRI (Jan 22) – A 39-year-old man, reported missing for five days after venturing into the jungle near Long Tungan in Ulu Baram to cut wood, has been found safe.
David Asang Salo, who disappeared on Jan 17, was located by villagers downstream of Long Pejau, near Long Selungo. According to a statement from the Marudi fire station, David was discovered uninjured and in good health.
The search-and-rescue (SAR) team, which arrived at Long Tungan around 3.06pm today, received the good news from the villagers who had conducted their own search efforts.
“The team went to the victim’s family house to confirm the information before officially calling off the operation at 4.58pm,” said the fire station in its statement.
David had entered the jungle with a friend late at night on Jan 17 to cut wood. However, only his friend returned home, prompting concern when David failed to appear.
A missing person report was filed on Tuesday, leading to the deployment of a SAR team by the Marudi fire station. The operation required an arduous journey of eight to nine hours along logging roads to reach the remote location.
David’s safe return has brought relief to his family and the community, who worked tirelessly alongside the SAR team to locate him.
This incident underscores the risks involved in venturing into remote jungle areas and highlights the importance of safety measures for those who rely on the jungle for their livelihoods.
