KOTA KINABALU: Two people have been killed in a boat collision near Balimbang Island off the Semporna district.
The deceased are a skipper and a passenger who were on a speedboat that collided with a tourist boat.
One of the victims held an IMM13 pass for Filipino refugees, while the other was undocumented.
Semporna OCPD Supt Mohd Sabri Zainol said the accident occurred at 9.45am on Sunday (Jan 12).
The passenger boat, carrying 12 Chinese tourists, was heading to Mabul Island.
"The collision caused serious damage to the speedboat, and two men were thrown overboard before going missing," he said on Monday (Jan 13).
A search was immediately conducted by the public and the other boat involved.
The bodies of the two victims, aged 45 and 50, were recovered shortly after, he added.
Supt Sabri said the bodies were taken to Semporna Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
The case is being investigated for causing death by negligence, which carries a penalty of up to two years in jail, a fine, or both upon conviction.
He urged witnesses to come forward and assist in the investigation by contacting Insp Mohammad Hafizudin Akram at 013-7557293 or visiting their nearest police station.
Supt Sabri advised all boat operators to prioritise safety in their operations.
"This includes providing safety gear such as installing night lights on boats and safety jackets," he added.
The tour boat skipper has been detained to facilitate investigations, while several others have been asked to provide information.
