KUALA KANGSAR – A Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) personnel was killed while another sustained injuries after a military truck carrying seven soldiers plunged into a ravine near the Menora Tunnel along the North-South Expressway on Wednesday evening.
The tragic accident occurred at Kilometer 257, northbound, shortly after heavy rain in the area. The vehicle, believed to have skidded, lost control before veering off the road and plunging down the ravine.
Acting Assistant Director of Operations of the Perak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), Shazlean Mohd Hanafiah, said an emergency call was received at 4.59pm.
“Out of the seven victims, five were successfully removed before firefighters arrived. Two others, who were seated at the back, were trapped,” he said in a statement.
The first trapped victim was extricated at 5.54pm but was confirmed dead at the scene by medical personnel. The second trapped victim was rescued at 6.14pm and handed over to the Ministry of Health (MOH) team for further treatment.
Shazlean said the rescue operation involved 11 firefighters from Kuala Kangsar and Meru Raya Fire and Rescue Stations, and it was fully brought under control at 6.14pm.
No other vehicles were involved in the accident. Preliminary reports indicated that the road was slippery due to rain at the time of the incident.
Authorities have not released the identity of the deceased pending notification of family members. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.
The Menora Tunnel stretch is widely known as one of the more challenging routes along the North-South Expressway due to its winding roads and steep descents, especially during wet weather conditions. Motorists are reminded to exercise caution when driving in such areas.