Family of Batang Toru River Victim Appreciates SAR Team

Intensive search efforts by a joint SAR team and local community over four days have finally succeeded in locating the body of a 52-year-old man, identified as ABS, who was reported swept away by the current of Sungai Aek Batang Toru. His remains were found on Thursday, 28 May, at approximately 10:30 AM WIB in the Siharbing Simason area of Pahae Julu District, about seven kilometres from where he was initially reported missing near Batu Hopit.

Tarutung District Head Renhard Lumban Tobing confirmed the discovery on Friday, 29 May, stating that a multi-agency team had immediately begun scouring the river after the missing person report. “The search was conducted for four days alongside village officials, BPD, and the local community. The victim was found yesterday in a deceased condition,” he said.

According to reports, the tragedy began when the victim was fishing with a companion. A sudden surge in river current is believed to have caused him to lose balance and be swept away. After being evacuated from the discovery site, ABS’s body was handed over to his family in Hutapea Banuarea Village for burial. The family expressed their heartfelt thanks to all involved parties for their sincere assistance during the search.

The incident serves as a reminder for locals to remain vigilant when near the Batang Toru River, especially during unstable weather conditions that can cause sudden increases in water levels.