Lahat, KOTABARI.COM – Tragedy struck the Lematang River as Suharman (65), a resident of Kuba Village, Pulau Pinang District, Lahat Regency, was found dead after being missing for three days. The victim was discovered floating under the Nanjungan Village Bridge, East Merapi District, Lahat Regency, with a blackened face and swollen body.
The unfortunate incident began on Wednesday (4/24/2024) around 10:15 AM when Suharman drowned in the Lematang River at Erna’s Manual Stone Base, Kuba Village. According to witnesses, the incident occurred while Suharman was collecting stones in the river. Despite initial rescue efforts, including searches by the Lahat Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), there were no signs of the victim being found.
Intensive search operations were conducted by various parties, including district authorities, police, and local residents. However, the swift current of the Lematang River made the search difficult. On Friday (4/26/2024), search efforts were halted due to darkness but resumed the following day.
The community was gripped by grief when Suharman’s body was finally found on Saturday (4/27/2024) around 11:30 AM. The victim’s body was discovered in a gruesome condition, with swelling and a blackened face. After a medical examination at Lahat Regional Hospital, the body was then handed over to the family for funeral proceedings.
Pulau Pinang Sub-District Head, Anton SE, MM, warned the public to be more cautious when engaging in activities around the Lematang River, especially for those using boats or rubber tires. Meanwhile, East Merapi District Head, Aria Pulun SE, also conveyed a similar message, emphasizing the importance of caution amidst the high water levels of the river.
This tragedy serves as a reminder for everyone to always be vigilant when engaging in activities around rivers, and underscores the need for safety as a top priority. May the victim’s family be given strength to endure this ordeal, and may similar incidents be prevented in the future.