Basarnas Searches for 8-Year-Old Boy Snatched by Crocodile in Kotabaru River

The Banjarmasin Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas) in South Kalimantan has deployed a joint SAR team to search for an eight-year-old boy, identified by the initial D, who was reportedly snatched by a crocodile in the Kupang River, Kotabaru Regency, on Tuesday. Head of the Banjarmasin SAR Office, I Putu Sudayana, serving as SAR Mission Coordinator, stated that the tragic incident occurred around 4:15 p.m. local time. The victim was known to be bathing in the river when the attack happened. According to witness accounts, the boy was suddenly grabbed by a crocodile and disappeared beneath the water near the scene. Residents who witnessed the event subsequently reported it to the Banjarmasin SAR Office to request search assistance. The official report was received by Basarnas at 8:00 p.m. local time. A rescue team from the Kotabaru SAR Post was immediately dispatched to the location to conduct an initial assessment and coordinate with relevant agencies to formulate an integrated search strategy. Putu emphasised that the search operation is being carried out by optimising all available resources. However, he stressed the importance of personnel safety, given that the location is a natural habitat for dangerous wildlife. He urged the public not to conduct independent searches in the area without adequate safety measures and to follow the instructions of officers for everyone’s safety. The joint team has also prepared supporting equipment such as rescue vehicles, rubber boats, communication devices, and water rescue gear to enhance field effectiveness. As of Tuesday evening, the victim had not yet been found. Although the weather at the location was reported to be clear, the team continues to monitor field conditions to adjust search techniques accordingly.