KOTA KINABALU: The fisherman who was shot by unknown gunmen in the Philippines waters on Wedneday has his right hand amputated recently.
The Indonesian man, 51, sustained serious injuries after he was shot several times while out fishing with another crew member. His condition is reported to be stable.
Sabah Criminal Investigation Department chief Datuk Salehhudin Abd Rahman said checks showed that in the 11pm incident, a boat with four people onboard approached the duo's boat.
"The victim, who is also the skipper, was then shot in his right hand, shoulder and chest.
"The other crew member immediately took over the boat and fled the area," he said, adding the second victim, 37, was not injured in the incident.
The duo, who possessed valid documents and work permits, initially tried to contact their employer at the Tigabu island in Kudat waters but to no avail.
"From Kudat, they rushed to Sandakan waters about 87 nautical miles away and managed to contact their employer there about 7am.
"Both were taken to the Duchess of Kent Hospital in Sandakan for treatment." he added.
Salehhudin said police would work with their Philippines counterpart to investigate the case.