Missing rescue worker found dead

Missing rescue worker found dead

YOGYAKARTA: Rescue workers yesterday found the body of a colleague, 42-year-old Gatot Hawibowo, who went missing during a picnic at the beach on Sunday.

The Antara news agency reported that the body of Gatot, a member of the local search and rescue team, was found near the accident site at Wediombo Beach, Gunungkidul regency.

Doctors at the Dr. Sardjito Public Hospital performed an autopsy before releasing the body for burial.

Anto, a brother in law, said that Gatot, his wife, and their three children were having a picnic and bathing with a number of friends.

Gatot then reportedly spotted one of his friends drowning. He jumped into the water to save his friend, but was caught in sudden strong waves and winds.

The friend made it safely back to the shore, but Gatot disappeared.

The local Armed Forces (ABRI) search and rescue team, local security personnel, the Red Cross and the Baron Beach's rescue workers all joined the search for Gatot. (swe)