SAR For Fisherman Missing Off Pulau Tenggol Called Off - MMEA

DUNGUN, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- The search and rescue (SAR) operation for fisherman Sabrie Rusli, 32, who was feared missing after his boat capsized in the waters off Pulau Tenggol near here last Thursday, was called off today after no clues or discoveries were detected.

Kemaman Maritime Zone Director Maritime Commander Abdul Halim Hamzah said the search operation for the fisherman covered an area of approximately 801.22 square nautical miles and was carried out systematically, taking into account weather conditions, sea states, currents, and the possibility of the victim drifting.

"Throughout the operation, various search methods were implemented, including surface searches, the use of sonar, diving operations, and a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to help detect any clues or objects believed to be related to the victim.

"However, until the operation was called off, no clues or discoveries linking to the victim were successfully detected," he said in a statement today adding that the decision to end the operation was made after all identified search sectors had been covered, and no new information was obtained to assist in locating the victim.

He stated that the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) expressed its appreciation and thanks to all agencies, rescue teams, the maritime community, and parties involved directly or indirectly throughout the operation.

"Although the SAR operation has been called off, MMEA assets conducting routine patrols will continue to monitor the area in case there is any new information or discovery regarding the victim," he said.

Previously, Bernama reported that Sabrie was believed missing after the boat he was riding in capsized in the waters off Pulau Tenggol at 5:00 pm last Thursday.

The incident is believed to have occurred while the victim, who was in a fiberglass boat, was on his way back after going out fishing at 9:00 am.

-- BERNAMA