Kuala lumpur: The Melaka Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has suspended search and rescue (SAR) operations at the site of a collapsed two-storey shophouse in Taman Kota Laksamana here today until the status of all workers at the premises is confirmed, while taking into account the risk posed by the unstable structure.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Melaka Tengah Fire and Rescue Station chief Senior Fire Superintendent II K. Karuppannan stated that the department would not risk the safety of its personnel by entering the collapsed structure until it is confirmed whether anyone remains trapped. "When the team arrived at the scene, we found the building had completely collapsed. However, we have yet to receive complete information on whether there are still victims trapped," he informed reporters at the scene.
He further mentioned that the building owner has informed them that all workers managed to get out, but confirmation from the workers who were present during the incident is still needed. The owner, currently in Kuala Lumpur, is on the way to the site with several workers to help verify the whereabouts of everyone involved.
Karuppannan explained that initial information indicated that four workers were carrying out renovation works at the premises before the incident. The absence of the owner, who is in Kuala Lumpur, necessitates waiting for the workers to confirm whether everyone managed to get out safely. Following that, the Fire and Rescue Department and the police will conduct further investigations based on the information obtained.
He elaborated that 10 personnel and a fire engine had been deployed to the scene to carry out monitoring and risk assessment, as both the front and rear sections of the building had collapsed. Cracking sounds from the structure suggested the possibility of further collapse. "We believe there is still a risk of further collapse because both the front and rear sections of the building have collapsed, and the structure continues to emit cracking sounds, indicating instability."
Karuppannan emphasized the importance of not jeopardizing the safety of personnel and stated that confirmation from the owner and workers is awaited before proceeding. If it is confirmed that no one is trapped, the SAR operation will not resume, and clearing work will be handed over to the building owner and the local authority.
Earlier reports indicated that the two-storey shophouse, believed to have been undergoing renovation, collapsed at about 4.45 pm, followed by a second, larger collapse at 5.23 pm. The incident also crushed two vehicles parked nearby, a Toyota Vios and a Proton Iriz, both of which were damaged by concrete debris and rubble.