LAHAD DATU: A 61-year-old man who went missing inside Tepadung Cave in Segama, here since May 26 was found alive and well on Wednesday afternoon at a plantation area, ending a four-day search and rescue (SAR) operation.
Ismail Ibrahim, originally from Sandakan, was discovered by a plantation worker at 12.43 pm, according to the Lahad Datu Fire and Rescue Department.
The victim was reported missing after he was left alone inside the cave while searching for birds’ nests with two companions. The two friends told authorities that they left the cave together to find drinking water, leaving Ismail inside. When they returned, he was gone.
The friends conducted their own search but failed to locate him. The family was contacted and confirmed that Ismail had not returned home to Sandakan.
An emergency call was received by the Lahad Datu Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) on May 31 at 2.10 pm from the district police. Fire and Rescue personnel arrived at the scene at 3.40 pm, 36 kilometres from the station.
A multi‑agency SAR operation was immediately launched. The operation was commanded by PBT II Suhaizan Sahak, with personnel from BBP Lahad Datu (two members), STORM (three members), police (four), General Operations Force (seven), Civil Defence Force (five), RELA (eight), the Forestry Department (four), and two civilians.
On the fourth day of the SAR operation, Wednesday, June 3, search efforts began at 10.20 am, focusing on areas outside the cave. Ismail was found two hours later at an oil palm plantation.
A health check was conducted on the victim before he was handed over to police for further action. The operation was concluded at 2.50 pm after authorities confirmed there was no further danger. – James Leong
Ismail Ibrahim (in ambulance), being checked by medical personnel after he was found yesterday. – PhotoCredit JBPM Sabah/Bernama
