Five Chinese nationals were injured after the car they were travelling in veered into an active culvert construction site at KM41, Jalan Kota Bharu–Kuala Krai, Machang, late Tuesday night (1 July).
According to Machang District Police Chief Superintendent Azuhar Md Nor, the incident occurred at about 11.30 PM on 1 July. Initial investigations found that the Toyota Prius, driven by a 66-year-old Chinese national, was travelling from Temangan, Machang towards Tok Bali, Pasir Puteh with four other Chinese nationals on board.
The driver and all passengers were injured.
The driver was reportedly relying on a navigation application before the vehicle entered the construction area, which was still under development and not yet open to the public.
The car subsequently plunged into the excavation at the culvert construction site. Police received an emergency report from members of the public at approximately 12.01 AM, prompting a swift response from emergency personnel.
All five occupants, three men and two women aged between 40 and 66, sustained injuries in the incident. They were rescued from the site and taken to Hospital Machang for further treatment. The extent of their injuries, however, has not been disclosed.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 43(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for careless and inconsiderate driving, according to an official statement by Azuhar.
Police have reminded motorists to remain vigilant when travelling, especially at night, by paying close attention to warning signs, traffic cones and safety barriers at roadwork and construction zones. They also advised drivers not to depend solely on navigation applications, as temporary road closures and construction works may not always be accurately reflected.
Authorities also expressed their appreciation to members of the public who quickly alerted emergency services, allowing rescue teams to respond promptly. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact the investigating officer or the nearest police station.
