On May 13, 2025, a devastating road accident in Teluk Intan, Perak, resulted in the deaths of nine officers from Malaysia’s Federal Reserve Unit (FRU). The incident occurred when a lorry transporting rocks collided with the officers’ vehicle.
The driver of the lorry, who survived the crash, has been taken into custody for further investigation. According to reports from the New Straits Times and Malay Mail, the driver tested negative for drugs, and authorities are currently probing the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Details of the Incident
The FRU officers were returning from a security detail at the Chitra Pournami Festival when the tragic accident occurred. Eight of the officers were pronounced dead at the scene, while one succumbed to injuries at the hospital. The deceased officers were aged between 28 and 46 years, highlighting the young age of many of the victims.
Hilir Perak district police chief, ACP Dr. Bakri Zainal Abidin, has called for anyone with information regarding the accident to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Injuries and Response
In addition to the fatalities, nine other personnel were reported to be receiving medical treatment, with five of them sustaining serious injuries. Comm Datuk Azmi Abu Kassim, the director of Bukit Aman’s Internal Security and Public Order Department, expressed his condolences, stating that the loss of these officers is a significant blow to both the police force and the nation.
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic atmosphere as FRU personnel rushed to assist their injured colleagues. A nearby food stall vendor recounted seeing officers in shock, attempting to provide emergency first aid. Another witness noted that the lorry swerved to avoid a white van emerging from a junction, leading to the head-on collision that overturned the FRU vehicle.
Community Impact and Support
The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for the families of the deceased officers. The police force is mourning the loss of its members, and the incident has raised concerns about road safety and the need for stricter regulations regarding heavy vehicles.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the factors that led to this heartbreaking accident and ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future. The community is urged to come together in support of the victims’ families during this difficult time.