IPOH: A drone has been deployed to assist in the search for hiker Jaslinda Saludin, 49, who has been missing since May 23.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) assistant director of operations Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad said the drone operator was sent with rescue teams to support surveillance and search efforts in the operation area.
“The drone is being used to assist in monitoring locations involving steep slopes, cliffs and other areas that are difficult for rescue teams to access.
“As of 1pm Friday, 12 rescue personnel have been airlifted into the search area, while another 12 rescuers who entered on May 27 had been brought out,” he said in a statement Friday (May 29).
He also said that four rescuers will be deployed shortly, bringing the total number of personnel deployed through the helicopter to 16.
He added that 19 personnel from the department, General Operations Force (PGA) and Civil Defence Force (MGP) who had entered the area on May 27 were successfully extracted by air.
“In addition, the operation also involves PGA and MGP teams who entered by land through Pos Musoh towards Sungai Air Busok, involving 18 personnel,” he said.
Previously, Jaslinda was reported to have joined the Trans Spencer Chapman hike with 13 others and two MGP personnel at 2am on May 23 through the Pos Gedung–Gunung Bah Gading–Gunung Batu Putih–Kuala Woh route.
During the hike, Jaslinda and another hiker, Mohd Hanafi Neikmad, 41, experienced health issues and stopped. However, Jaslinda reportedly continued towards the summit and was last seen by MGP personnel at 7.30am on May 24.
