Body of missing teenager found in Sungai Kelantan; SAR operation ends

The search for Muhammad Rayyan Hakimie, a 14-year-old boy who went missing while swimming in Sungai Kelantan, has concluded with the discovery of his body. His remains were found approximately 51 kilometers from where he was last seen, near Kampung Bandar, Pulai Chondong, Machang.

Muhammad Rayyan had been swimming with three friends in the river near Kampung Batu Lada on Tuesday when he disappeared. His body was located floating and snagged on bamboo branches after nearly 70 hours of being swept away by the current. The discovery was made around 1 p.m. today.

According to Nik Ahmad Afsham Nik Pa, head of the Kuala Krai Fire and Rescue Station, the body was handed over to the police and subsequently transported to Hospital Sultan Ismail Petra. The search and rescue operation was officially closed following the recovery of the teenager's body.

The victim's mother, Norhasmiza Kamarudin, expressed gratitude for the safe recovery of her son's body. She also extended her appreciation to the local assemblyman, rescue teams, villagers, and Muhammad Rayyan's friends who assisted in the search and identification process. The funeral is scheduled to take place later this afternoon at the Kampung Aur Duri Islamic Cemetery. This incident follows the earlier discovery of another student, Muhammad Lut Naiman Mohd. Noor Aziron, 14, who also drowned in the same river.