A man was found drowned in the sea near Masjid Tanjung Aru Lama here Friday.

Kota Kinabalu police chief ACP M. Chandra said the victim, in his 30s, is believed to be an illegal immigrant.

"Initial investigation revealed that a resident spotted the victim around 9.15 waving from a distance of 70m in the sea as if he needed help.

"The resident tried to save the victim, but failed, and with the help of another resident, they managed to bring the victim to the shore using a boat," he said in a statement.

He said police ruled out foul play as there was no injuries found on the victim's body. - Bernama