KUCHING: A 16-year-old teenager, identified as the driver who allegedly caused the horrific accident along Jalan Teo Kui Seng-Stutong Baru yesterday (Jan 14) and which claimed five lives, will be detained for further investigation.
Kuching police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah in a statement, said the boy is currently receiving treatment at the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) for neck injuries.
“We have identified the teenager as the driver of the crashed vehicle and he sustained injuries to his neck following the accident.
“He will be detained for further investigation upon receiving treatment at SGH,” he said.
Asked whether the teenager possessed a driving licence, Mohd Farhan confirmed that he did not possess one.
The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for causing death by reckless or dangerous driving.
If convicted, the section provides for a prison sentence for a term of up to 10 years, and a fine of up to RM50,000.
He revealed that the death toll in the fatal accident, involving three cars and two motorcycles, rose to five individuals after one succumbed in SGH.
“Three men and a woman, aged between 16 and 45, were pronounced dead at the scene.
“A fifth victim, another 16-year-old boy, succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at the hospital,” he said.
Preliminary investigation indicate that the accident was caused by a car travelling from Jalan Airport towards Jalan Setia Raja, which had swerved out of control, overturned and collided into two motorcycles and two cars in the opposite lane.
Mohd Farhan added that three injured victims, are still receiving treatment at SGH emergency unit.
Those with information on the accident, are urged to come forward and contact investigating officer Lucas Apin at 013-8246881 or 082-259900 or go to the nearest police station.
