KENINGAU - The body of one of two sisters feared drowned has been found in Sungai Pagalan in Kampung Linkudou here this morning.
Twelve-year-old Azila Jabar's body was found not far from where she and her younger sister, Arlina, 9, were reported missing yesterday.
Keningau Fire and Rescue Department (BBP) chief Sharudy Delamin said as a result of the search and rescue (SAR) operation, one of the victims was successfully found.
"In addition to searching along the riverbank on foot, the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Water Rescue Team also conducted underwater searches in the river.
"The first victim was successfully located by firefighters at 11.36am, approximately 1.7 kilometres away from the scene," he said when contacted by Sinar Harian today.
He added that the body was then handed over to the police for further action.
"The SAR operation to search for the second victim will continue and any information will be updated from time to time," he said.
Prior to that, in an incident around 4.30pm, Azila and Arlina were said to be playing by the riverbank.
However, Arlina fell into the river and Azila then jumped in an attempt to save her sister, but both of them went missing, believed to have been swept away by the current.