BACHOK – What was meant to be a joyful family outing turned tragic when a nine-year-old boy went missing and is feared drowned after being swept away by strong waves at Pantai Kemayang this evening.
The boy, identified as Muhamad Irfan Mohd Afendi, disappeared at about 6.45pm while swimming near the shoreline with his younger sibling.
Emergency services were alerted around 7.15pm before a specialised Water Rescue Team (PPDA) was dispatched to the location. Early search efforts focused along the coastline before additional manpower from Pengkalan Chepa Fire Station joined the operation.
Bachok Fire and Rescue Station chief Ahmad Ridhuan Mohamad Ghazali confirmed that sea conditions were challenging with strong currents reported at the time of the incident.
A nearby visitor, Nor Suzilawati Nor Rashid, recalled that the child’s mother had just called him to return to shore when a powerful wave surged in and dragged him out to sea.
“His father bravely tried to rescue him but the current was too strong,” she said.
Rescue operations continue, and authorities have urged beachgoers to exercise caution, especially in areas with unpredictable currents.