SARIKEI: A collision involving two vehicles at KM448 Jalan Betong-Sarikei-Meradong claimed eight lives and left two others injured on Thursday (Nov 21).
The accident, which occurred around 2.50 pm, involved a Perodua Alza and a Toyota Hilux.
According to Sarikei district police chief Superintendent Aswandy Anis, the Perodua Alza was carrying a male driver of Chinese ethnicity along with seven Indonesian passengers.
“The vehicle was reportedly fleeing a routine police patrol (MPV SK326) before veering into the opposite lane near a curve at Sungai Nyelong on the Pan Borneo Highway. The Alza then collided head-on with the Toyota Hilux, which was occupied by a man and a woman.
“All eight individuals in the Alza were pronounced dead at the scene by Sarikei Hospital personnel, while the Hilux occupants sustained minor injuries. The bodies of the victims have been transported to Sarikei Hospital for post-mortem examinations,” he said.
Authorities are investigating the incident under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
Aswandy urged anyone with information related to the crash to contact Traffic Investigation Officer Inspector Ahmad Mustaqim Idris at 010-4427240 or visit the nearest police station.
Police have also reminded road users to adhere to traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users.
