Heartbreaking Accident Shocks Community
Falling tree crushes van in Lahad Datu, kills police corporal
Lahad Datu’s police force mourns the loss of one of their own
On June 21, a tragic accident claimed the life of a police corporal in Lahad Datu, Sabah. The incident occurred at 2:30 PM along Jalan Gelugor, Felda Sahabat 16, Tungku, when a tree suddenly fell, crushing the police van he was driving. The deceased officer, aged 44, was en route from the General Operations Force (GOF) Komtek Sahabat 16 area to Pantai Sahabat 16.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
Eyewitness Account from Fellow Officer
Lahad Datu district police chief ACP Dzulbaharin Ismail provided details about the tragic event. According to his statement, a male police personnel driving a scrambler motorcycle from the opposite direction witnessed the horrific incident unfold.
“A tree on the right side of the road fell suddenly and crushed the van driven by the victim,” ACP Dzulbaharin Ismail reported. “The victim died at the scene of the incident.”
The police personnel who witnessed the accident was unable to do anything to prevent it but immediately called for emergency assistance. Despite their swift response, the corporal’s injuries were too severe, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigations Underway
ACP Dzulbaharin expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss. He assured that a thorough investigation into the incident would be conducted promptly. “We are committed to understanding the circumstances that led to this unfortunate event. Our priority now is to expedite the investigation so that the victim’s family can proceed with the necessary funeral arrangements.”
The investigation will involve assessing the structural integrity of trees along the roadway and ensuring that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
Community Reactions and Safety Measures
A Community in Mourning
The sudden and tragic death of the police corporal has sent shockwaves through the Lahad Datu community. Fellow officers and residents alike are grieving the loss of a dedicated public servant. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends who remember the corporal as a diligent and courageous officer.
“We have lost a brother, a friend, and a dedicated officer,” said one of his colleagues. “He served with honor and integrity, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him.”
Public Safety Advisory
In light of this incident, ACP Dzulbaharin Ismail issued a public safety advisory, urging motorists to remain vigilant while driving. “We advise the public to drive safely and remain aware of their surroundings to avoid endangering themselves and other motorists,” he emphasized.
This advisory is particularly pertinent during the current monsoon season when heavy rains and strong winds can cause trees to become unstable and fall.
Moving Forward
Support for the Victim’s Family
The police force has pledged its full support to the deceased corporal’s family during this difficult time. They are working closely with them to provide the necessary assistance for the funeral arrangements and any other support they may need.
A fund has been established to support the family, with contributions coming from both the police force and the community. This gesture reflects the high regard in which the corporal was held and the collective grief felt by those who knew him.
Preventive Measures
In response to the incident, local authorities are undertaking a review of the area’s road safety measures. This includes a comprehensive assessment of the condition of trees along major roadways to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future. They are collaborating with environmental experts to ensure that trees near roads are healthy and do not pose a threat to motorists.