Two days ago, 47-year-old Ha entered subsection 503 of the park with his two children, aged 7 and 14, to gather mushrooms. Leaving his children at a hut, he ventured deeper into the forest and lost contact. The children walked to Cat Tien 3 commune to alert relatives. After an unsuccessful family search, they reported the incident to the police on 15/9.

Ha (right) after being found. Photo: Le Tien

Ha (right) after being found. Photo: Le Tien

Local authorities mobilized three search teams comprised of police, military personnel, forest rangers, and local residents. They also requested assistance from the Lam Dong provincial police. This afternoon, a team led by Major Dieu K' Tong found Ha at a stream, about a three-hour walk from where he had left his motorbike. He was taken to the communal health center and is now in stable condition.

Authorities advise against entering the forest without permission or a guide, citing potential dangers and the difficulties it poses for rescue efforts.

Cat Tien national park spans over 70,000 hectares within Dong Nai and Lam Dong provinces. Recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve, it is home to hundreds of rare animal species listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book.

Le Tien - Truong Ha