LAHAD DATU, MALAYSIA— A 45-year-old father faced a tragic loss after his child was attacked and dragged away into the water by a crocodile, despite a frantic fight in an attempt to rescue his son.
Sumsoa Rashid, Lahad Datu Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) chief, said the unfortunate incident happened on 1 Dec, 10.25 am morning.
According to witnesses, the two victims were attacked by the crocodile when the man was scouring the shore nearby Lahad Datu Marine operations base to land his boat.
“The victim was rescued by public, but suffered serious head and body injuries, he is now being treated at the Lahad Datu Hospital.”
The victim was identified as a Palauh tribesman named Moherat.
After receiving an emergency call, Sumsoa immediately launched a search and rescue (SAR) operation for the missing three-year-old boy.
“Despite the man’s best efforts he ended up with numerous bite wounds and could not stop his son from being dragged underwater,” Sumsoa added.
SAR mission ended, toddler yet to be found
Some viral videos presumably recorded by witnesses nearby showed how the toddler was being dragged to nearby water and the distraught father explaining what had happened.
Astro Awani had reported that the search and rescue mission had ended on the evening of 3 Dec evening, and the young victim, believed to have been eaten by the crocodile has not yet been found.
A spokesperson for the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) in Sabah told the media that the SAR operation would resume if new signs are found.
Victim’s father receives support from the local community
Some local communities had provided aid and support to the father after they learned about the regrettable incident. Some folks had visited Moherat in the hospital and called for donations to reduce his medical fees burden.
From the photos shared by RS LD Bundle Asraff, two large scars can be seen left on Moherat’s head from the crocodile attack.
Another young good Samaritan Adrian Edy also visited to Moherat’s house. He shared that Mr Moherat is still traumatized by the incident, especially since it happened in front of his eyes.
“For the past few days, it’s hard for him to sleep as he mourns and thinks of his son. He feels distressed and sad as long as his son’s body has not been found. But he says he accepted what happened and believes God loves his son more. Uncle cried until his tears dried up.”
Adrian encourages others to comfort the father or support him financially, even in a small amount.
