ALOR GAJAH: A 55-year-old tourist van driver tested positive for drugs and was arrested after the vehicle he was driving skidded and landed on its side along KM212 of the North-South Expressway (southbound) here on Monday (May 4).
Alor Gajah OCPD Supt Ahmad Abu Bakar said the incident occurred at about 10.30am Monday when the driver lost control of the van while ferrying eight tourists from India to the historic city for sightseeing.
“Fortunately, a 52-year-old passenger and two boys aged 13 and nine sustained only minor injuries,” he said.
Supt Ahmad said the driver, who was unhurt, would be produced at an Alor Gajah Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday (May 5) for a remand application to assist investigations.
He said the case is being investigated under Section 44(1A)(a) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for driving under the influence of drugs.
Meanwhile, Melaka Fire and Rescue Department public relations officer Deputy Fire Supt Mohd Hafidzatullah Rashid said 10 personnel from the Alor Gajah Fire and Rescue Station were dispatched to the scene after receiving an emergency call.
"Upon arrival, we found eight foreigners and a local male driver at the scene. Those who sustained minor injuries were sent to the hospital for further treatment.
“Other passengers, comprising one adult male, three women and another boy, escaped unscathed,” he said.
He added that the operation was brought under control at 11.13am and concluded a minute later after ensuring there were no further hazards.
