Mango-Picking Tragedy: Man Electrocuted in Papar
In a tragic event that has stirred the hearts of residents in Kampung Bambangan, Papar, a simple fruit-picking adventure turned into a fatal incident. A 42-year-old man’s routine moment of harvesting mangoes abruptly led to his untimely demise. The details of this event underscore the unpredictable risks that surround everyday activities.
The Fateful Call
The tragedy unfolded when the Papar Fire and Rescue Station received an urgent call via MERS999 at exactly 3:01 p.m. The caller reported a man being electrocuted while attempting to pluck mangoes from a tree using an iron rod. Rozlan Osman, the Chief of the Papar Fire and Rescue, swiftly dispatched a team of eight firefighters who reached the scene within seven minutes, a testament to their dedication.
Unforeseen Danger
Describing the sequence of events, Chief Rozlan explained that the victim, in his quest to collect mangoes, inadvertently made contact with a nearby electric cable while maneuvering an iron rod. This miscalculation resulted in instant electrocution, rendering him unconscious and trapped upon the tree’s branches.
Collaborative Rescue Efforts
Upon arrival, the firefighters, in coordination with Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB), efficiently acted by cutting the power supply to ensure safe access to the victim. Using ladders and rescue ropes, they carefully descended the victim to the ground. Unfortunately, despite the speedy response and meticulous efforts, a medical officer confirmed the victim was already deceased at the scene.
The Curtain Falls
With the operation concluding by 4:29 p.m., the fire brigade relinquished the case to the local police for further investigation. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unexpected perils ordinary tasks can harbor. It stands as a call to exercise vigilance and respect for the silent power of electrical installations.
Lessons and Reflections
This sorrowful story of a routine activity turned tragic is bound to stay in the collective memory of the community. The incident prompts individuals to reflect on safety measures and the unsuspecting hazards that linger around seemingly harmless actions. As stated in thesun.my, safety precautions have never been more critical.
A reminder of life’s fragility and the profound impact of such incidents in communal life, this heartbreaking story sends waves of empathy and prayers throughout the Kampung Bambangan neighborhood.
