Two small explosions detected during Muar peat fire ops, say Johor cops

 

MUAR: Two small explosions were detected during operations to extinguish a peatland fire at a plantation here.

Muar OCPD Asst Comm Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz said the first explosion occurred on Feb 3 at a plantation owned by the Johor State Farmers’ Organisation (PPNJ) at Batu 13/14, Air Itam here.

“Entering the eighth day of the operation, a small explosion was detected in Sector D of the area. The incident is believed to have been caused by the peat fire that is still active beneath the surface.

“The exact cause of both incidents is still under investigation,” he said in a statement.

He added that investigations are ongoing at the scene.

“However, access to the affected area is limited due to thick smoke and the loose, unstable peat soil structure, which makes it difficult to determine the exact location of the explosion and to carry out a thorough investigation.

“Therefore, for the safety of personnel and the public, Sector D has been completely closed,” he said.

ACP Raiz Mukhliz said firefighting operations are continuing using water bombing methods with the assistance of a helicopter to ensure the fire is fully controlled while minimising risks to personnel on the ground.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates from time to time.

“The public is advised not to approach the area and to always comply with instructions from the authorities for everyone’s safety,” he added.  - FMT