Search for two Chinese tourists missing on Mantanani Island ends

KOTA KINABALU: After seven days, the search and rescue (SAR) operation for two Chinese tourists who were reported missing in the waters of Mantanani Island, Kota Belud since Oct 5, was ended today until new leads were received.

The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) in a statement, however, informed that regular search operations will continue through patrols by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritim Malaysia).

“The victim has not yet been found and based on discussions with all rescue agencies, the operation was terminated at 11:30 am today until new leads are received,” the statement said.

The operation, which began last week, involved 95 members of various agencies including the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), APMM, fire brigade, Air Operations Force (Drone Unit), Marine Police Force and the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM).

In addition, the operation was also assisted by villagers and tourist resort operators around Mantanani Island, who played an important role throughout the seven-day search.

On Oct 5, two Chinese tourists, identified as Yu Xiapeng, 25, and Fan Qin, 28, were reported missing after failing to be traced while staying at Sutera Mantanani Resort, Pulau Mantanani, Kota Belud.

— BERNAMA