Eight teens feared drowned in Johor

Eight teenage boys are believed to have drowned in the Buluh Kasap River near Segamat, Johor, after seven of them went to the aid of one who was struggling in the water.

Three of the bodies were recovered by last night, The Star reported. The others are still missing.

The eight teenagers were among 13 who had gone to the river yesterday.

Johor Fire and Rescue Department diving team head Mohd Aizad Mamat said the department was alerted by one of the teenagers.

Mr Mohd Aizat told the New Straits Times that initial investigations revealed that the teenagers, aged between 13 and 16, had gone for a jog before three of them decided to go for a swim.

Mr Mohd Aizat said one of the boys cried out for help after encountering difficulty in the river, which is near a sand quarry.

He said: "His friends jumped into the river to rescue him and all eight found themselves struggling in the water."

The recreational spot, located about 10 km from Segamat, is popular with residents in the vicinity.

Mr Mohd Aizat said the river is about 20 metres deep.