Kuala lumpur: Behind the raging flames and thick smoke that often leave behind nothing but charcoal and ash, one should not assume that no evidence can be found in the aftermath of a fire.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, advancements in forensic technology have enabled experts to determine the cause of a fire, and in cases of foul play, the evidence can support prosecution in court. This critical task falls to the forensic team from the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM), who step in once the Firefighting and Rescue Operations Division has extinguished the flames.

Recognising the significance of fire forensic investigations, the Malaysian government established nine laboratories in 2004 across various states, including Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Sabah, among others. These labs have been instrumental in resolving major cases swiftly, such as the fires at Sultanah Aminah Hospital in Johor Bahru and the Darul Quran Ittifaqiyah Tahfiz Centre in Kuala Lumpur.

Kelantan JBPM Director Farhan Sufyan Borhan highlighted that a firefighter’s job extends beyond extinguishing fires. Forensic investigations are crucial in identifying the actual cause of fires, whether due to negligence, faulty wiring, or arson. Farhan, with his experience in the Fire Investigation Division, explained that detecting hydrocarbons, used to accelerate fires, requires sophisticated lab equipment like Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS).

Electricity-related fires are prevalent, with 78 to 79 percent of cases in Kelantan attributed to electrical failures. Farhan noted that old or modified electrical systems pose significant risks, with distinctive patterns like ‘beading’ on copper wires serving as key indicators of electrical fires.

The absence of a local forensic lab in Kelantan poses challenges, as samples must be sent to labs in other states, potentially compromising evidence integrity. Farhan expressed the need for a dedicated local lab to ensure faster and more accurate investigations, particularly for cases involving hydrocarbons and arson.

JBPM’s Key Performance Indicator demands that fire investigation reports be completed within 14 days, serving vital roles for insurance claims, workplace safety improvements, and legal investigations. In suspected criminal cases, these reports are crucial for the Royal Malaysia Police and prosecutors in court.

While Kelantan hasn’t seen high-profile cases needing extensive forensic analysis, its unit has handled impactful cases involving arson and suicide. A strategic collaboration with the police, formalized in 2018, designates JBPM as the lead body for fire cause determination, with criminal cases referred to the police for further action. This partnership enhances the speed and accuracy of investigations by leveraging each agency’s expertise.