KOTA MARUDU: A total of 45 people, including seven children, had a terrifying ordeal when they were trapped by a flash flood during a fishing competition near Kampung Longob, Jalan Tandek, here earlier this afternoon.
Sabah Fire and Rescue Department Superintendent Riki Mohan Singh Ramday said they received an emergency call at 4.11pm.
A team of firemen from the Kota Marudu Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), led by Senior Fire Officer II Dusin Sagaron, was dispatched to the scene.
"Upon arrival, the team found 45 people trapped across the river due to the flash flood. The incident also caused a bridge over the river to be damaged by the strong currents," he said today (July 8).
It is understood that before the incident, all victims were participating in a fishing competition at a nearby pond.
The Fire and Rescue Department team transported all the victims to safety using ropes and ladders.
"All 45 victims, comprising 23 men, 15 women and seven children, were successfully rescued. No injuries or fatalities were reported," he said.
The operation concluded at 6.47pm.