Kota Kinabalu:A five-day rescue operation successfully concluded for Croatian climber Mauro Persic, who fell into a ravine on Mount Kinabalu at an altitude of 3,700 meters. The mission is noted as one of the most challenging efforts undertaken by local rescue teams.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Persic, aged 46, had entered Mount Kinabalu on September 6 via an unauthorized route through Sungai Mesilou without a permit, resulting in his fall and subsequent injuries to his right leg, ribs, and arm. The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) faced extreme challenges as the location was off the official climbing trail.
The Sabah Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Team (STORM) reported that although the victim was only about 150 meters from the search and rescue teames position, reaching him required navigating the difficult "Bowen route," characterized by steep and slippery terrain. Safety ropes were essential for the rescue operation due to the hazardous conditions.
The operation began after receiving information via the STORM Sabah WhatsApp group at 830 pm on September 6. Sixteen STORM members gathered on September 7 for a safety briefing before starting their ascent from Timpohon Gate. They reached the control post at Gunting Lagadan by 6 pm. The following day, 11 STORM members, along with Park SAR rangers and a mountain guide, embarked on the Bowen Route at 5 am, but some had to stop due to acute mountain sickness.
Despite spotting Persic at 1040 am, adverse weather including heavy rain and fog halted attempts to reach him until the following morning. The rescue team, using rope techniques, managed to reach and administer initial medical treatment to Persic by 824 am on September 9. They employed a Sked stretcher and hauling system to move him to safety by evening.
Persic was transported down the mountain on September 10, arriving at Timpohon Gate at 706 pm, before being taken to Ranau Hospital. The operation involved 43 personnel and required extensive jungle survival and high-angle rescue skills.
Persic faced a maximum fine of RM25,000 for trespassing on Mount Kinabalu without a permit.