Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook has ordered an immediate audit of a trailer company involved in fatal crash in Segamat, Johor. It claimed three lives, the case was issued to the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ), authorities move to investigate the incident.
The crash occurred 200 metres from the victims house, involving a van carrying five family members. The vehicle was reportedly turning into a housing area when it was hit by a lorry from behind, before another lorry rammed into it. The impact of the accident resulted the death of K.Myakrishnan, 71, his wife S.Sevendai, 65, and the van driver S.Palamiandy, 75.
Another two younger passengers, 18 and 22 years old, were seriously injured and is receiving treatment at Segamat Hospital now, with one of them in critical condition.
Speaking on this incident, Loke shared that he met the victims families and provided financial assistance to help ease their burden during this time. He hopes that the investigation is carried out swiftly, especially after it was revealed that the 29-year-old driver tested positive for methamphetamine.
The tragedy left the victims family devastated. A relative shared they were coming back home after visiting family members, and was just minutes away when the accident happened.
“We didn’t expect to lose 3 family members at once. It is even more heartbreaking that it happened so close to home,” she said.
Friends of the victims paid tribute as well, remembering Palamiandy as a kind and warm person who was well-linked by those around him.
Authorities are currently investigating the case under the Road Transport Act 1987, and the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. The incident has raised more concerns about road safety, with Loke reminding drivers not to operate vehicles under any influence, as it puts many lives at risk.
