Mura Regency, KOTABARI.COM – A young man from Lubuklinggau city was reported dead after drowning in the Barata River, located in Dusun 04, Sukorejo Village, STL Ulu Terawas District, Mura Regency. The victim, identified as Bambang (29) residing at RT 01, Jukung Subdistrict, South Lubuklinggau District I, was found on Friday (26/04/2024) around 9:35 PM.
Mura Police Chief, AKBP Andi Supriadi, through Terawas Police Chief, Iptu Farizal Alamsyah, confirmed the incident on Saturday (27/04/2024). According to the statement of the Police Chief, the event occurred after receiving information from local residents. A team from the Terawas Police Station immediately proceeded to the Scene of the Incident (SOI) to investigate and evacuate the victim.
Based on the testimony of two friends of the victim, the chronology of events began when the victim, along with two of his companions, was diving to fish in the Barata River. However, the victim did not resurface after his two friends had reached the riverbank. Search efforts eventually found the victim unconscious around 9:50 PM.
Despite being rushed to the Srikandi Medika Clinic in H Wukirsari Village, Tugumulyo Subdistrict, rescue efforts were unsuccessful. Initial speculation suggests that the victim drowned due to lack of air and energy, possibly trapped or entangled in underwater plant roots in the densely vegetated river, which includes water hyacinths.
Tugumulyo Police Chief, Iptu Dedi Purnomo, who was also involved in handling the case, confirmed that there were no signs of violence on the victim’s body. The victim’s remains have been taken by the family for burial.
The Police Chief also reminded the public to exercise caution when engaging in activities in rivers or swamps. It is advised not to engage in such activities alone but rather with friends or companions. Additionally, in case of security disturbances, the public is urged to promptly report to the nearest Police Station.