Malaysian SAR teams recover four more bodies from capsized boat, bringing total fatalities to 16, with 14 survivors found so far in border waters
ALOR SETAR: Search and rescue teams recovered four more bodies from the Malaysia-Thailand border waters boat tragedy today, bringing the total fatalities found by Malaysian authorities to 16.
Another survivor was discovered on a beach of one resort island, increasing the number of rescued individuals to 14.
Kedah and Perlis Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency director First Admiral Romli Mustafa said today’s operation covered 272.78 square nautical miles.
“The first body, that of a man, was found by members of the public near Pulau Beras Basah around 10.40 am,” he said in a statement.
Romli confirmed the BENTENG 7 boat transported the remains to the MMEA jetty for handover to police.
The KM SIANGIN patrol vessel later discovered a boy’s body floating in waters off Tanjung Chincin.
This victim was transferred to the PERKASA 1226 boat and taken to Teluk Ewa Jetty.
Minutes later, KM SIANGIN located another unidentified body in the same area.
Fire and Rescue Department personnel transported these remains to Teluk Ewa Jetty.
A Royal Malaysian Navy vessel reported finding another boy’s body off Tanjung Belua at 11.20 am.
These remains were also handed over to police authorities.
Romli emphasized MMEA and all participating agencies remain committed to locating remaining missing victims.
“Despite challenging sea conditions and the wide search area, the operation continues with a strong emphasis on safety and search precision,” he stated.
He confirmed any new developments would be shared periodically.
Today’s operation involves 130 personnel from various agencies supported by 11 assets.
These include KM SIANGIN, PETIR 81, PERKASA 1226, BENTENG 7, and a Bombardier CL 415 aircraft.
Thai authorities conducting parallel search efforts in their waters have recovered nine bodies so far. – Bernama
