KAMPAR: Continuous rain, which caused the water level in Sungai Jahang to rise rapidly, is believed to have caused a rafting boat carrying six Public Works Department (PWD) members and one guide to overturn.
District police chief Superintendent Mohamad Nazri Daud said all the passengers were swept away by the strong currents, and three victims could not be rescued as they drowned.
He said police received initial information from the owner of a resort regarding the capsizing incident at 5.50pm.
"Water rafting boats from the resort, carrying 21 passengers, five guides, and one photographer, had departed for Sungai Jahang for a white-water rafting activity.
"All participants were staying at the resort for a team-building programme. Seven participants were from PWD Langkawi, while 14 were from PWD Seberang Perai, Penang," he said when contacted tonight.
He added that at the start of the activity, conditions in Sungai Jahang were still suitable for water rafting. However, the water began to appear murky.
"About 500 metres from the departure point, the water level rose rapidly. One of the last boats capsized, and seven victims were swept away about 800 metres from the site of the incident.
"Three victims were confirmed dead, while the remaining victims were found safe.
"All the bodies have been identified by friends of the deceased and have been taken to Kampar Hospital for post-mortem examinations. Statements from all participants will be recorded immediately," he added.
The victims have been identified as Mohamad Khairul Hakim Hamidi, 37, and Muhammad Ikram Abdul Bari, 29, both from PWD Langkawi, while the female victim, Suhaili Mat Saad, 47, was with PWD Seberang Perai Tengah.
Earlier, Perak Fire and Rescue Department director Sayani Saidon said they received a distress call at 5:56 pm, and a team of firefighters from Gopeng rushed to the scene.
Asked if all the participants wore life jackets during the water rafting activity, Sayani said she was informed that they all wore personal flotation devices (PFDs).