RANAU: The search and rescue operation to locate the last missing person feared drown in Kangairan River was called off on Friday.
The victim, Marudin Limboy, 40, was among nine people who were swept away by swift currents while crossing the river in a Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle at around 7pm on Aug 25.
Seven others however swam to safety while the body of a three-year-old infant, Elsey Charles, was found five days later, about 40 metres from where she was last seen.
Sabah Fire and Rescue Department public relations officer, Mohd Affendi K Ramin said that although the search had been called off, they would remain on alert should the body be found.
In the incident, it was learned that the vehicle transporting the nine people had to stop in the middle of the shallow river to allow a vehicle coming from the opposite direction to drive up the river bank.
However, the vehicle was swept away by currents.