No Malaysians involved in Morocco quake, says Wisma Putra

 

Strong tremors were also felt in the coastal cities of Rabat, Casablanca and Essaouira following the 6.8-magnitude quake which struck late Friday near the tourist city of Marrakesh. (AP pic)

PETALING JAYA: No Malaysians have been reported to be involved in the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck near Marrakesh in Morocco on Friday.

Wisma Putra said the Malaysian embassy in Rabat is closely monitoring the latest developments in the aftermath of the earthquake.

“As of Sept 9, no Malaysians were reportedly affected by the earthquake. Malaysians in Morocco are advised to remain vigilant and to follow the latest updates and advice issued by the local authorities,” it said in a statement last night.

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“Malaysia extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to the victims and families affected by the earthquake, as well as to the government and the people of the Kingdom of Morocco.”

The Malaysian embassy in Rabat is reachable by phone at (+212) 5 37 65 83 24 or (+212) 6 73 29 14 24, or via email at mwrabat@kln.gov.my.

Latest media reports put the death toll in Morocco at more than 2,000, with another 2,000 people injured, over half of which are in critical condition.

The 6.8-magnitude quake struck late Friday in a mountainous area 72km southwest of the tourist city of Marrakesh. Strong tremors were also felt in the coastal cities of Rabat, Casablanca and Essaouira.

The quake caused widespread damage and sent terrified residents and tourists scrambling to safety in the middle of the night, AFP reported. - FMT