Black object, believed to be rocket fragment, found


PETALING JAYA: After the “meteor shower” over Sarawak, residents of Batu Niah in the state were shocked to find an alien object that is believed to have landed near their homes.

The black object, found buried about half a metre in the ground, is believed to be debris from China’s Long March 5B rocket, which came crashing back to Earth on Sunday.

ALSO READ: It’s a meteorite ... no, it’s space junk

Most of the rocket was burnt on re-entry.

Two families have been told to vacate their homes due to radioactivity concerns.

ALSO READ: Debris of Chinese Long March rocket spotted crashing down to Earth over Sarawak skies

The existence of the unidentified black object at Lot 65, Pekan Sepupok Lama, Niah, was reported by local residents.

Immediately after an emergency call was received at 6pm, the Batu Niah Fire and Rescue Department sent an operation team to the location.

“The operation team found the black object buried about half a metre in the ground and pictures were taken for further action,” Astro Awani quoted a department staff member as saying.

Earlier, social media had been abuzz with several videos and pictures showing a bright object like a meteor in Sarawak’s airspace, especially in the Kuching area.

Miri OCPD Asst Comm Alexson Naga Chabu said a Batu Niah resident lodged a report after discovering the fragment.

He advised the public to stay away from the area in case the metal fragment contained radioactive substances.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Nation

KKB by-election: Slander will only hurt Indian community, says Ramanan
Anwar wants more women in top civil service posts
Najib Razak did not instruct US$1.03bil 1MDB fund transfer, court told
Over 3,000 compounds were issued during Ops Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Melaka
MCA and Fujian to forge stronger ties for mutual prosperity
US academician's claim visiting Malaysia refuted by travel advisory
Fahmi shares moment 'Gol & Gincu' met 'Litar & Lumba'
A HEART for deserving cases: Private teaching hospital teams with Health Ministry on affordable healthcare
Motorcyclist sheltering from rain dies after being hit by SUV in Papar
Kulai Municipal Council president highlights district's potential for industrial development

Others Also Read