A foreign man lost his life after suffering an electric shock during a fire that engulfed a recycling factory at Batu 2, Kampung Durian, Lahad Datu, on Saturday evening.
The incident, which occurred at about 5pm, claimed the life of Muhammad Alpian Abdullah, who was pronounced dead after receiving emergency medical treatment. The tragedy unfolded as firefighters battled the blaze at the factory.
Lahad Datu Fire and Rescue Station chief Sumsoa Rashid said the department received an emergency call regarding the incident at 6.09pm before deploying 21 firefighters to the scene, located about five kilometres from the station.
He said the fire involved a non-permanent recycling factory, which was approximately 90 per cent destroyed. Firefighters immediately launched extinguishing operations using water from an open source as well as a nearby fire hydrant to prevent the flames from spreading further.
According to Sumsoa, the victim was reported to have suffered an electric shock during the incident. He was given initial treatment by the medical team at the scene before being rushed to hospital for further care, but was later confirmed dead.
He added that the fire was successfully brought under control at 7.38pm. Firefighters continued overhaul operations and worked to extinguish remaining hotspots to eliminate the risk of the fire reigniting.
Such post-fire operations are a standard procedure carried out to ensure the affected area is completely safe before emergency personnel conclude their response. Authorities said further updates will be provided as investigations and operations continue.
