Drunk Driver Hits Singaporean Man and Police Officer During Roadside Stop in Johor Bahru
A 53-year-old Singaporean man and a Malaysian police officer were injured in a late-night traffic incident in Johor Bahru after a car driven by an allegedly intoxicated motorist veered into the lane where they were standing. Both victims were taken to hospital following the collision, which occurred along a busy expressway heading towards Johor Bahru city centre.
The incident happened while the Singaporean man, who works as an engineer, had been pulled over by police for a traffic-related matter. Authorities said the situation escalated suddenly when another vehicle entered the lane where the stop was taking place, resulting in serious injuries to both the civilian and the officer on duty.
The case has drawn attention to the dangers faced by motorists and law enforcement officers during roadside checks, especially along high-speed routes frequently used by cross-border traffic between Malaysia and Singapore.
INCIDENT OCCURRED DURING POLICE STOP
According to Malaysian police, officers had stopped a Toyota Estima driven by the Singaporean man after suspecting a traffic violation. He was instructed to pull over into the bus lane on the left side of the road so that further action could be taken safely.
While the police officer was issuing a summons, a Honda Civic travelling in the same direction reportedly entered the bus lane and struck both men. The impact caused injuries that required immediate medical attention, prompting emergency services to convey them to Johor Bahru General Hospital.
Authorities have not disclosed the extent of the injuries, but confirmed that both individuals were receiving treatment. Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collision are ongoing.
DRIVER SUSPECTED OF DRINK DRIVING
Police later identified the driver of the Honda Civic as a 32-year-old IT engineer. Preliminary investigations indicate that he may have been driving under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.
A breathalyser test conducted after the incident reportedly showed that his blood alcohol content exceeded Malaysia’s legal limit. As a result, the driver is expected to face further investigation and potential charges under Malaysian traffic laws.
Drink driving remains a serious offence in Malaysia, particularly following amendments in recent years that introduced harsher penalties, including longer jail terms and higher fines. Enforcement agencies have continued to stress zero tolerance for impaired driving due to the risks posed to public safety.
SAFETY CONCERNS FOR CROSS-BORDER MOTORISTS
The incident has raised fresh concerns among Singapore motorists who regularly travel into Johor Bahru, whether for work, leisure or daily errands. Busy expressways, combined with high traffic volumes and late-night driving, increase the risks associated with roadside stops and accidents.
Road safety experts have long highlighted the vulnerability of both drivers and enforcement officers during traffic checks conducted along fast-moving roads. Proper visibility, adequate warning signage and heightened awareness from passing motorists are crucial in preventing similar incidents.
Police have urged drivers to remain vigilant, reduce speed when approaching roadside stops, and strictly avoid driving after consuming alcohol. Investigations into the case are ongoing, and authorities are expected to provide further updates once inquiries are completed.