SANDAKAN: A 30-year-old electrical worker was electrocuted while installing a utility pole in Bandar Tabin Jaya on Saturday night, while four hikers were rescued after losing their way at Sandakan Rainforest Park the previous day.
In the first incident, the victim, identified as Jai, was found trapped atop the pole when firefighters arrived at 8.03 pm—just ten minutes after the emergency call was received at 7.53 pm. Rescue teams waited for Sabah Electricity to cut the power supply before using specialised equipment to bring the victim down. The operation concluded at 9.40 pm.
Medical officers from the Ministry of Health (MoH) pronounced the worker dead at the scene. His remains were handed over to police for further investigation. The rescue effort involved seven firemen, assisted by personnel from Sabah Electricity, police, and MoH.
In the second incident, the Fire and Rescue Department received a distress call at 7.28 pm regarding hikers lost at Sandakan Rainforest Park, roughly 12 kilometres from the station. Eight personnel were deployed, arriving at 7.38 pm to begin the search.
After 46 minutes of combing the jungle trails, the team located all four missing individuals—one adult male and three adult females—at 8.14 pm, about 100 metres from the main road. All four were confirmed to be in stable condition with no injuries.
The rescued hikers, who are foreign visitors, were handed over to police for processing, and the operation concluded at 8.27 pm.
Authorities have reminded the public to remain cautious when hiking and to ensure they are well-prepared with appropriate gear and communication devices.
Both incidents drew swift responses from emergency services, with the Fire and Rescue Department coordinating alongside police and other agencies to ensure public safety. – James Leong
Sandakan firemen climb up the ladder to reach the victim on Saturday night.
