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A FRANTIC search and rescue operation is currently underway in the Samarahan Division after a local man was reportedly seized by a crocodile beneath the Sungai Buloh Bridge in Sadong Jaya near Kuching in Sarawak.
The victim, identified as Mohd Faizal Abdilah, thirty, was fishing with a companion when the attack occurred during the midday heat on Tuesday.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the riverside community, as witnesses described a sudden and violent struggle in the water.
According to preliminary reports from the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department Operations Centre, the victim had waded into the river to increase the reach of his fishing nets when the predator struck.
A spokesperson for the operations centre detailed the grim sequence of events, stating, according to public witnesses who were at the location, the victim went down into the river up to waist level to cast a net before suddenly being snatched by a crocodile.
The victim's friend who witnessed the incident immediately sought help from the public before contacting the authorities to inform them of the incident.
The emergency call was logged at 12.40pm, prompting a swift response from the Asajaya Fire and Rescue Station, located approximately eighteen kilometres from the scene.
Rescue personnel arrived on-site by 1pm to begin a systematic sweep of the riverbanks and surface waters.
The search teams are currently facing challenging conditions as they navigate the tidal river.
The spokesperson further noted, the rescue team arrived at the location at 1pm and obtained detailed information before conducting a search and rescue (SAR) operation in the involved river.
The operation started with surface search techniques, however, the state of the river current as well as safety factors at the scene were also taken into account throughout the operation to avoid any risk to the rescue personnel.
Local residents have gathered near the bridge as the authorities continue their efforts to locate Mohd Faizal.
Despite the intensive surface search, there had been no sign of the victim as of mid-afternoon.
The authorities remain on high alert, citing the presence of crocodiles in the area as a significant factor in how the search is being managed.
The operation remains active as divers and boat teams coordinate their movements along the stretch of the river where the victim was last seen. - February 17, 2026
