KOTA KINABALU: A teenager who failed to return home for two days after going fishing at the treacherous Padas river in Tenom district has been found dead.

       The 19-year-old, identified as Kriston Jukiring from Kg Kalandos Pangi, had gone to the river to fish at about 5pm on Wednesday (Feb 23).

       State Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations Misran Bisara said prior to his disappearance, the victim had gone to his cousin’s house to borrow a kayak.

       "However, he did not return home after that. Villagers tried searching for Kriston on Thursday (Feb 24) but could not find him," he said in a statement.

       He said a missing persons report was lodged at 10.15am on Friday (Feb 25).

       Firemen had to go to the village by train, as it was the best and fastest means of travelling there, before they could start their search operation, Misran added.

       "The search operations were focused some 10km along the riverbank where he was last seen," he said.

       The victim’s body was discovered by villagers and participating agencies, including the Civil Defence Department and police, at about 1.10pm.

       The teenager was declared dead by medical officials at the scene.

       His body was handed over to police for further action.

       The Padas river has claimed many lives due to its strong and unpredictable currents over the years.