KOTA KINABALU: The body of a 31-year-old male Chinese tourist was discovered underwater by marine police near Sabah’s renowned diving spot off Mabul Island, Semporna.
He was found fully clothed in a light-coloured T-shirt, shorts, shoes, and a grey backpack.
The victim, identified as Zhang Cao from Henan, Guangdong, China, is believed to have been a solo traveller.
Semporna district police chief Supt Mohd Sabri Zainol said the tourist was last seen near Mabul Island.
“We received a report at 11.33am on Friday (Dec 13) regarding a missing male Chinese tourist in the waters near Mabul Island.
“Acting on this information, the Semporna Marine Police team, with assistance from divers from nearby resorts, conducted a search and found the body at a depth of 17m,” he said.
Police also found a cell phone and a few passport-sized photos in the bag.
The police have opened an investigation and classified the case as a sudden death.
“We urge anyone who has a missing family member or relevant information to contact us immediately. A post-mortem will be conducted within 48 hours if no next-of-kin comes forward to claim the body,” Mohd Sabri said in a statement.
Those with information are encouraged to contact the investigating officer, Asst Supt Mohd Ali Amat, at 013-212 0852, the Semporna police station at 089-782 020, or any nearby police station.
***Those facing mental health issues or contemplating suicide can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935/ 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999/ 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim’s family, social and community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); or Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929/email sam@befrienders.org.my/visit www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia).
