Lahad datu: Two women were killed in a five-vehicle accident at KM14 of the Lahad Datu-Tawau road here yesterday. Lahad Datu deputy police chief Supt Jimmy Panyau reported that the incident occurred at 4.30 pm, involving multiple vehicles and resulting in fatalities and injuries.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, a 21-year-old woman driving a Proton Saga died at the scene, while a 35-year-old passenger in the same car succumbed to injuries while being transported to the hospital. The crash ensued when the Proton Saga, carrying seven individuals, lost control and veered into the opposite lane. It collided with a rigid dumper lorry driven by a 45-year-old man. The lorry then entered the opposite lane and struck a Perodua Alza and a motorcycle, leading to further collisions involving a Hitachi construction machinery at a nearby construction site.

The impact was severe, causing the lorry and the Perodua Alza to plunge into a ravine near the Pan Borneo Highway construction area. Five passengers of the Proton Saga and the motorcyclist were taken to Lahad Datu Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, the drivers of the lorry and Perodua Alza did not sustain serious injuries.

The tragic incident is currently being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. Lahad Datu police urge members of the public with any information regarding the accident to contact the traffic investigating officer, Insp Humaidi Harun, at 089-881255 or visit the Lahad Datu district police headquarters to assist in the investigations.