Two swept away by strong currents at Pantai Belawai yet to be found

An outing to the beach by four friends turned into a tragedy when two of them were swept away by strong currents at Pantai Belawai, Sarikei, Monday afternoon.

Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department assistant director Farhan Sufyan Borhan said a search and rescue operation was initiated by the Sungai Merah Fire and Rescue Department in Sarikei but hampered by strong waves.

He said the search and rescue operation was limited to the coastal area during the 5pm incident near the Iftitah Resort and Restaurant in Pantai Belawai.

The victims, identified as Armi Armira Pendita, 27, and Mohd Hanis Tajuddin, 16, from Kampung Jerijeh, Sarikei have yet to be found until 10.30pm.