Police have recorded statements from seven individuals as part of investigations into the explosion during a grenade-throwing exercise at Kem Hobart in Gurun that claimed the lives of two military personnel on Tuesday.
Kedah Deputy Police Chief Baderulhisham Baharudin said investigations are ongoing and several more individuals connected to the incident will be called in to provide statements on Wednesday.
“So far, we have recorded statements from seven individuals and the investigation will continue. Statements from other relevant individuals will be taken tomorrow.
“Those questioned include instructors, fellow trainees and individuals who were present at the scene during the incident,” he told reporters at the Kedah Police Contingent Headquarters on Tuesday night.
According to Baderulhisham, the case is currently classified as a sudden death report (SDR) while authorities continue gathering information.
He said cooperation between the police and the military in handling the investigation has been smooth, adding that the military is also expected to conduct its own internal probe into the tragedy.
“Investigations are proceeding according to standard procedures. At the same time, I believe the military will carry out its own internal investigation.
“Our immediate priority is completing the post-mortem examinations on both victims, which are being conducted at the Forensic Department of Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital,” he said.
He added that resolving matters involving the victims’ remains remains the top priority, and authorities hoped the post-mortem process would be completed on Tuesday night.
Baderulhisham also urged the public not to circulate photographs or videos related to the incident on social media out of respect for the victims’ families and to avoid interfering with investigations.
“We must respect the families of the victims and allow the authorities to carry out their investigations.
“If images or information related to the incident are widely shared, it could potentially affect the investigation. I hope the public will refrain from making any speculation regarding this tragedy,” he said.
Earlier, it was reported that two military personnel were killed following an explosion during a training exercise at the firing range in Kem Hobart, Gurun, at about midday on Tuesday.
The victims were identified as Norazmi Abu Bakar from the Sixth Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment and Siti Khadijah Sungip from the First Squadron of the Royal Engineers Regiment.
Both victims were reported to have died while being transported to Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital for treatment.
Their remains were later taken to Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital for post-mortem examinations before being laid to rest in their respective hometowns in Sungai Petani, Kedah, and Johor.
