A hunting trip in Sarawak turned fatal when a man was accidentally shot in the head by his friend, who mistook him for a wild boar. The incident occurred on May 25, 2025, around 5:30 PM in the jungles of Sungai Dor in Melugu, as reported by Sri Aman District Police Chief, Superintendent Dennis Bunyam.
During the outing, a 46-year-old man fired his shotgun, believing he was targeting a wild boar. Unfortunately, he was gravely mistaken, and the shot struck his friend instead. Medical personnel who arrived at the scene pronounced the victim dead shortly after the incident.
Legal Consequences for the Shooter
Following the tragic event, investigations revealed that the shooter did not possess a valid firearm license for hunting in the area. As a result, his shotgun was confiscated by the authorities. He is currently in police custody until May 30, facing charges under Section 304A of the Penal Code for causing death without intent, as well as violations of the Arms Act 1960 for possessing an unlicensed firearm.
Superintendent Bunyam emphasized the importance of adhering to laws regarding firearm ownership and usage, urging the public to ensure that all hunting activities are conducted with the necessary permits and licenses.
A Cautionary Tale
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with hunting and the critical need for responsible firearm handling. Mistaken identity in hunting scenarios is not uncommon, and this tragic event echoes similar incidents from the past, highlighting the importance of safety measures and awareness in outdoor activities.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and reflects on the need for stricter regulations and education surrounding hunting practices to prevent such tragedies in the future.