German Tourist Dies During Snorkelling Trip Off Lahad Datu

LAHAD DATU, June 17 (Bernama) -- A German tourist died after collapsing while snorkelling in Pulau Sakar waters here this morning.

Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Lahad Datu Maritime Zone director, Maritime Commander Dzulfikhar Ali, said Kenneth Ray Crouse, 78, was pronounced dead at Lahad Datu Hospital.

“The Lahad Datu Maritime Zone Operations Centre received information on the incident at 11.20 am, and a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operation was coordinated.

“At the scene, the victim was assisted with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by his friend before patrol boat Cenderawasih 02 transported him to the Fisheries Jetty. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital,” he said in a statement today.

Dzulfikhar advised the public to prioritise safety when carrying out activities at sea and to immediately report any maritime emergencies or crimes.

He said the public could contact the Lahad Datu Maritime Zone Operations Centre via WhatsApp at 016-9305727 or the MERS 999 emergency line for immediate assistance.

-- BERNAMA