A 55-year-old van driver has been found positive for drugs following a crash involving eight Indian nationals along Kilometre 212 southbound of the North-South Expressway in Melaka on Monday morning.
Melaka Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) chief, Superintendent Muhammad Zaki Ramat, said authorities received a report of the incident at approximately 10.30am. Initial findings revealed that the tour van was travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka when it is believed to have lost control before veering onto the left shoulder of the road.
Despite the impact, the local driver escaped unhurt. However, a preliminary urine screening later confirmed that he had tested positive for methamphetamine, commonly known as syabu. The case highlights ongoing concerns over road safety and substance abuse among drivers, which continues to pose risks to public safety.
Following the discovery, the driver has been detained and is expected to be remanded on Tuesday to assist further investigations. Authorities are treating the matter seriously, emphasising that driving under the influence remains a major contributor to road accidents in the country.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 44(1A)(a) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for driving under the influence of drugs and causing injury. In the incident, three passengers — a 52-year-old man and two boys aged nine and 13 — sustained minor injuries and were taken to Hospital Melaka for further treatment.
Earlier reports stated that all eight passengers, including three children, experienced a frightening ordeal when the Toyota Hiace van they were travelling in skidded off the road and overturned. Emergency responders from the Alor Gajah Fire and Rescue Station arrived promptly at the scene after receiving an emergency call.
A team of 10 firefighters managed to bring the situation under control by 11.13am, with operations concluding a minute later after ensuring there were no further hazards. Members of the public with information related to the incident are urged to contact investigating officer Inspector Nurul Salina Rosli or visit the nearest police station to assist with the investigation.
