Fisherman Reported Missing Found Drowned

GEORGE TOWN, June 26 (Bernama) -- A local crew member, reported missing after allegedly falling from a fishing boat in waters near Pulau Kendi, Batu Maung, on Wednesday, was found drowned near Pulau Betong today.

Penang Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) director Muhammad Suffi Mohd Ramli said the victim's body was discovered at 2.30 pm and subsequently handed over to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for further action.

"The search and rescue (SAR) operation was fully concluded at 7.15 pm after the victim was found," he told Bernama tonight.

He added that the MMEA extends its appreciation to all rescue agencies and members of the fishing community for their cooperation throughout the search and rescue (SAR) operation.

Earlier, Southwest District Police Chief ACP Anuwal Ab Wahab said police received a report on the incident involving the victim, Tang Chin Khoon, 51, at 8:53 am yesterday, and search efforts had been ongoing.

He added that the MMEA extends its appreciation to all rescue agencies and the fishing community for their cooperation throughout the SAR operation.

Earlier, Barat Daya police chief ACP Anuwal Ab Wahab said a report regarding the incident involving the victim, Tang Chin Khoon, 51, was received at 8.53 am yesterday, following which a SAR operation was launched.

The victim was said to have gone out to sea with a skipper and two other companions to fish at about 6 pm on Wednesday, and upon returning at about 10 pm, the boat operator realised the victim was not on board and believed he had fallen into the sea near Pulau Kendi.

-- BERNAMA