Snowdan reviewed the SAR operation of a teenager worried about crocodiles in Sebuyau

KUCHING, 27 Oct: Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Snowdan Lawan today reviewed the search and rescue (SAR) operation of a teenage boy reportedly caught by crocodiles in Sungai Plaie, Ulu Sebuyau.

The survey was conducted as SAR operations entered their first day with Mohd Nordin Mohd Othman, 14, still missing at noon.

Snowdan said there were reports of a crocodile being seen carrying something in its mouth upstream, prompting an immediate effort to reach the site.

"They saw a crocodile that looked like it was carrying something in its mouth upriver.

"So they want to move immediately to the site upstream", he said when found at the scene.

In the incident at about 5.30 pm yesterday, victims were reportedly caught by crocodiles while carrying palm fruits into a boat on the river.

The incident was witnessed by his uncle, Midin Radin.

According to the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) of Sarawak, the search operation started at 10.30 am today involving four boats as well as about 40 members from related agencies and villagers.

The search was conducted within a radius of two kilometers upstream and downstream.

The operation also involved the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Sarawak Forest Corporation (SFC), Malaysian Public Defence Force (APM) and villagers.

The operation was temporarily suspended at 1 noon and resumed at 2 p.m. with no casualties identified so far.