November 05, 2009 23:17 PM

Youths Drinking Session Turns Tragic

LABUAN, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- A drinking session by a group of youths turned tragic when one of their friends jumped into the sea and disappeared.

The incident happened at about 7 pm Wednesday by the waterfront of the International Ferry Terminal here.

A rescue operation by the scuba diving unit of the Labuan Fire and Rescue Services Department is still continuing with the assistance of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and the police.

The victim's family members and scores of people gathered at the scene since 8pm yesterday hoping and praying for the safety of the youth. They now only hope for a miracle.

The youth, a 22 year-old, identified as Clifford Dede James was a piping staff in Goodwill, a company currently undertaking a contract job in Labuan Shipyard Engineering.



Labuan public order and traffic chief ASP Mohd Hairol Marjuki told Bernama three youths in their 20s were having alcoholic drinks there when the incident happened.

"After a while, one of them jumped into the sea just but was pulled up by his two friends and they resumed their drinking. Once again the youth took off his shirt and pants and jumped into the sea with only his underwear but this time went under and disappeared," he said.

"It is now already more than 12 hours, we are still searching for him," he added.

A witness, who was fishing close by, said he saw Clifford jump twice into the sea.

"The waves were quite rough, he could have been swept away a distance," he said.

--BERNAMA

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