SARIKEI: Police are investigating whether seven Indonesian passengers involved in a fatal crash at KM448 Jalan Betong-Sarikei-Meradong had entered Malaysia legally.
Sarikei district police chief Superintendent Aswandy Anis confirmed that the victims had no prior criminal records. However, investigations are ongoing to determine the passengers’ immigration status and whether they entered Malaysia through illegal means.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday (Nov 21), claimed eight lives and left two others injured. He revealed that the tragedy happened during a high-speed chase when police attempted to inspect a suspicious vehicle.
“We’ve contacted the Indonesian consulate to notify them of the incident involving their nationals,” Aswandy added.
He also clarified that roadblocks were not involved, as the Alza had fled during a routine roundabout inspection.
He assured the public of efforts to enhance road safety along the Pan Borneo Highway. “Our Traffic Department conducts regular patrols and operations to ensure compliance with traffic laws and the safety of all road users.”
On Thursday, officers from the Sarikei Mobile Patrol Vehicle (MPV) unit had noticed a Perodua Alza, registration number TCP-392, acting suspiciously during a routine patrol around 2.50pm. When the driver ignored police orders to stop, despite sirens and signals, a chase ensued.
“The driver’s reckless actions, including driving against traffic on the Pan Borneo Highway, endangered other road users; the pursuit ended when the Alza collided head-on with a Toyota Hilux.
“All eight individuals in the Alza, including the Chinese male driver, and seven Indonesian passengers, were killed instantly. The victims were aged between 16 and 53.
“Meanwhile, the Toyota Hilux, carrying a man and a woman, sustained minor and internal injuries, respectively. The injured woman is currently receiving treatment at the hospital,” he said.
