KUANTAN, Sept 15 —The search and rescue (SAR) operation for an excavator driver, who was reported buried under a rockfall at a quarry in Ulu Gali, Sungai Ruan, Raub, entered its third day today, with the search area being further expanded.
Pahang Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Assistant Director (Operations and Rescue) Mohd Salahuddin Isa said the operation to locate Mohammad Fazrul Illahi Ab Rahman, 30, resumed at about 7.50 am after being postponed at 7 pm yesterday.
He said today’s search also involved the use of a tracker dog, Denti, as well as assistance from the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), who deployed equipment to detect structural movement at the site.
“The search area has been expanded from approximately 4.6 square metres yesterday to an additional 4.6 square metres today.
“The main challenge faced by the SAR team is the presence of large rocks and unstable soil, which increases the risk of further collapse during the operation,” he said when contacted by Bernama.
He said yesterday’s SAR operation was temporarily suspended at 11.45 am due to the movement of rocks that fell into the search area, but resumed after the situation was safe.
According to him, more than 30 personnel from various agencies, including JBPM, Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and APM were involved in the operation this morning.
In the incident at 12.50 pm last Saturday, Mohammad Fazrul Illahi was reported to be operating an excavator when he was struck by falling rocks from a nearby hillside.
The victim is believed to have jumped out of the machine he was operating before being struck and buried by rocks.
Three foreign workers escaped with minor injuries. — Berrnama
