K9 unit to help in Wisma Jakel fire probe

SHAH ALAM: Two dogs from the K9 unit are being used in the forensic investigation of the fire at Wisma Jakel here.

Selangor Fire and Rescue Department director Datuk Norazam Khamis said the English Springer Spaniel dogs named Rusty and Sam were sent to the building yesterday.

“We are using them to detect accelerants such as petrol, oil or chemicals, if there are any.

“It is a normal procedure as part of our forensic investigations to determine the cause of the fire,” he said when contacted.

Canine help: Fire and Rescue Department personnel Assan John (right) and Jovesster Junil (second from left) leading Sam and Rusty to Wisma Jakel in Shah Alam. — Bernama

Other elements, including wiring problems, machinery failure or faulty electrical appliances, would also be checked, said Norazam.

The three-storey Wisma Jakel in Seksyen 7 here, which also housed textile fabrics, was destroyed in a fire that started at 7.19am on Sunday.

More than 38 firemen and several fire engines were sent to the scene and the fire was brought under control within an hour.

Norazam said some 80% of the building was damaged.

“No one was hurt or killed in the incident,” he added.