PUNAN BAH: A senior citizen was found drowned after falling from his boat into Sungai Benatu in Punan Bah, Belaga. The victim, Micheal Sait Lanyau, 60, had been on his way to his durian orchard when he tripped and fell into the river last Monday. The search and rescue operation, which included local villagers, discovered his body about a kilometer from the accident site.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department's Operations Centre in Sarawak released a statement confirming the recovery of Lanyau's body at 9:10 a.m. today. It was subsequently handed over to the police for further proceedings. The incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. on the previous Monday when the victim was reportedly swept away by the river's current.

The tragic event has prompted local authorities to remind residents about the importance of safety measures when navigating the river, especially during monsoon seasons when currents can be unpredictable. The community mourns the loss and extends their condolences to the family of the deceased.