Teluk Intan: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has emphasized that current legislation is sufficient to investigate and prosecute the parties involved in the tragic accident that led to the deaths of nine Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) personnel in Teluk Intan, Perak.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the importance of reinforcing the enforcement of these laws to ensure they are applied effectively. He confirmed that the lorry driver implicated in the accident has been remanded for four days, with the investigation being carried out by the Police’s Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ).

Regarding the accountability of the company or vehicle owner, the investigation will be conducted through Puspakom (Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre) under the Road Transport Act. Ahmad Zahid stated that the Ministry of Transport, through JPJ and Puspakom, is responsible for executing this investigation.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Rural and Regional Development Minister, addressed concerns about the necessity of amending laws to hold companies accountable alongside drivers. This discussion arose from public reactions, including those from leaders and NGOs, advocating for comprehensive accountability beyond the driver.

The fatal accident occurred at 8:50 am on Tuesday when the FRU team truck collided with a lorry carrying stones on Jalan Chikus-Sungai Lampam. The personnel were returning to their base in Sungai Senam when the incident happened, resulting in nine fatalities and nine additional injuries among the FRU personnel, who have since been hospitalized.