SEMPORNA: A 38-year-old tourist drowned while eight others were rescued when the boat they were in capsized off Timba-Timba Island, on Monday.
Police detained a local man and three foreigners aged 22 to 40 to assist in investigations. The identity of the tourist was not disclosed.
District Police Chief, Supt Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah, said police received a report at 4pm about the 10.10am incident. He said nine tourists were on board with four other men, including the skipper.
“Upon arrival at the scene, water started seeping into the boat and sank. All the victims jumped into the sea before being assisted by boats nearby.
“One of the victims drowned while eight others were rescued,” he said.
Investigations carried out under Section 304 of the Penal Code provides imprisonment of up to two years or with a fine or both, upon conviction.
“All suspects will be brought to the magistrate’s court for remand,” he said. Those with information may contact Insp. Khadijah Mohd Seruji at 019-8718002 or nearest police station. Mohd Farhan advised boat owners to be careful while handling the boat and to provide safety equipment such as safety jackets.
Sabah Parks Director Dr Maklarin Lakim said Pulau Timba-Timba is located outside Tun Sakaran Marine Park and hence not under its jurisdiction.
Meanwhile, the body of an unidentified man believed in his 30s was found floating near Balimbang jetty, Pulau Bum Bum, on Monday. Mohd Farhan said a member of public discovered the body at about 7am and alerted police.
The body was sent for post mortem. “Following the post mortem, Police classified the case as sudden death.
“Those with missing family member or have any information about the incident may contact Pulau Bum Bum Station Chief, ASP Muhammad Ali Amat at 013-2120852,” he said. Information could also be channelled to Bum Bum Police station at 01164637271 or 01115891631 or the nearest police station.
