MARUDI, SARAWAK: A tragic accident claimed the life of a man while another was seriously injured when the cement-laden lorry they were travelling in reportedly lost control and plunged into a river at Bukit Nursery on Jalan Miri-Marudi.
The incident happened around 2.00 pm when the lorry veered off the road and entered the river. Both victims were buried under cement, leaving emergency responders scrambling to rescue them.
Marudi District Civil Defence Officer, Lt. (PA) Mirwan Shah Masri, said they received an emergency call from Marudi Hospital at 2.43 pm. The call prompted a swift response from the Civil Defence Force’s Charlie Squad, led by Lance Corporal (PA) Mohamad Hassan.
The Charlie Squad, consisting of four members, rushed to the scene, which was located approximately 36 kilometres from the Marudi District Operations Control Centre (PKOD). Firefighters were also called in to assist in the rescue operation.
Lt. Mirwan said that one victim was successfully removed from the wreckage and immediately transported by ambulance to Marudi Hospital. He was later referred to Miri Hospital for further treatment due to the severity of his injuries.
Sadly, the second victim did not survive the accident. His body was handed over to the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) for further investigation and necessary action.
Authorities are now working to determine the exact cause of the accident. Initial findings suggest that the driver may have lost control of the lorry before it plunged into the river.
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder to drivers, especially those operating heavy vehicles, to remain vigilant and take extra precautions on winding roads.
