A man died and another was seriously injured after their four-wheel-drive vehicle fell into an open sewer construction pit along Jalan Pantai, near Lahad Datu town, early this morning, according to The Star.
The driver, 34-year-old Wilyamil Ahajul, is believed to have lost control of the vehicle, hitting a road divider before plunging into the seven-metre-deep jacking pit. The project was reportedly under a government department, with barriers around the opening but no solid cover installed.
His passenger, Muhammad Almadi Hassan, died at the scene after being trapped in his seat, which had become submerged in water. Wilyamil suffered a broken arm and was taken to hospital for emergency treatment.
Lahad Datu Fire Station chief Sumsoa Rashid said firefighters were alerted at 7.04am and reached the site four minutes later. The vehicle had landed on its side, and both men were lifted out using ropes and stretchers.
Muhammad’s body was handed to police for further action. Barriers were placed around the construction site after the rescue to prevent further accidents. The operation concluded at 9.07am.
