Batang Kali landslide: Bad weather was one of the biggest challenges, says IGP on SAR operation

HULU SELANGOR: Rainy weather and high risks at the ground zero of the landslide at Father's Organic Farm were among the biggest challenges faced by rescuers, says Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani.

The Inspector-General of Police said despite such challenges, the rescuers managed to pull through in finding all the victims.

"The condition of the terrain at ground zero coupled with the rainy weather were a big challenge for the search and rescue (SAR) team.

"The priority is always the safety of the rescuers and thankfully we were fortunate that the SAR operation was smooth," he told reporters at the SAR operation centre in Batang Kali on Sunday (Dec 25).

The IGP said the SAR operation was fortunate as the supply of manpower and assets were more than sufficient.

"Close to 12 heavy machineries were used in this operation," he added.

He said he was also thankful to the NGOs for showing excellent cooperation in not disrupting the SAR operation.

"We cannot use their services this time as ground zero is a high risk area and requires specialised equipment as well as expertise," he said.

Asked whether there were reports of illegal donation collection due to the landslide tragedy, Acryl Sani said the police have not received any report.

On when the Gohtong Jaya-Batang Kali route would be opened to the public, Acryl Sani said he would leave it to the relevant agencies such as the Public Works Department to access and decide.