KOTA KINABALU: A staff member of Sabah Electricity (SE) is believed to have drowned after being swept away by strong river currents while trying to cross a flooded bridge in Keningau last night.
According to a report by the Vibes, the man, who is in his 30s, was working alongside two colleagues at a substation in Kampung Nuntunan Apin-Apin prior to the incident.
While the other two managed to escape, the victim was carried downstream after losing his grip on a rope.
Severinus @ Mohd Nidzam Sainkui, the chief of Keningau Fire and Rescue, stated that a distress call was received at 9:57 PM, prompting the deployment of a nine-member team.
As search efforts continue, supported by police and local villagers, the victim has not yet been located.
SE Sdn Bhd confirmed the incident in a statement, indicating that rescuers have been mobilised and search operations are ongoing.
“Our priority is the safety and welfare of the staff involved, while providing full support to the family,” the statement read.
In total, 2,879 individuals from 817 households have been displaced across six districts in Sabah.
Authorities have confirmed 13 fatalities, with 24 evacuation centres currently operational in Beaufort, Penampang, Tawau, Membakut, Papar, and Putatan.
SE is expected to issue an official statement regarding this incident later.
