A tragic incident occurred in Kampung Baru Tanah Mas, Tapah, when a man was found dead after becoming trapped in a drainage or sewage manhole on Saturday afternoon. The man, believed to be in his 40s, was discovered unconscious and later confirmed dead at the scene by medical officials.
The Perak Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency alert at approximately 1.38pm. Acting Assistant Director of Operations, Shazlean Mohd Hanafiah, stated that a fire engine and rescue team from the Tapah Fire Station were immediately deployed to the location, which was about nine kilometres away.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the victim inside the drainage structure without any response. Paramedics from the Ministry of Health later confirmed the victim had passed away.
Rescue teams proceeded to retrieve the body carefully due to the confined space and potential dangers involved. The deceased has since been handed over to police for further investigation, including post-mortem procedures to identify the cause of death.
Authorities have yet to determine how the man became trapped in the structure. Investigations continue, with police examining all possibilities.
The incident has sparked safety concerns, highlighting the dangers posed by confined spaces such as drainage systems. Officials reminded the public to remain cautious and avoid entering hazardous utility areas without proper expertise or safety equipment.
Further details are expected as investigations progress.