ANN/THE STAR – A fire engulfed a water village in Tawau, Sabah, yesterday, destroying 80 houses in Kampong Sri Aman, Batu 3, Jalan Apas.
The blaze, which began early in the morning, resulted in three individuals suffering from smoke inhalation. They received immediate first aid from the Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) team on-site.
Tawau Fire and Rescue Department Station Chief Jemishin Ujin said the department received a distress call at 7.46am.
A team of 44 firefighters was dispatched and arrived at the scene, about six kilometres away, within seven minutes.
“Our efforts were supported by four firefighters from Kunak and seven from the Titingan community firefighting team. Around 80 houses were completely destroyed.
The fire was brought under control by 9.20am using two 300-foot hoses and three water jets, with water sourced from fire engines and nearby hydrants,” said Jemishin.
The operation also saw the involvement of 17 members of the Civil Defence Force (APM), eight officers from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and three personnel from Sabah Electricity.
While no further casualties have been reported, investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
