JOHOR BARU, Malaysia — A Singaporean man and a Malaysian police officer were seriously injured on Jan. 27 when a car struck them while they were standing beside a road after a traffic stop, prompting a police search for more information from the motorist. It’s a jarring reminder of how quickly a routine encounter can turn dangerous.
Traffic Stop Turns Violent in Johor Baru
Both a Singaporean driver and a Malaysian police officer sustained serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle on Jan. 27.
- The incident occurred along Jalan Johor Baru-Air Hitam near Larkin around 10 p.m.
- A 32-year-old Malaysian man has been charged with driving under the influence.
- The Singaporean driver, 53, sought further medical treatment in Singapore.
- Police are requesting witnesses to come forward.
The Singaporean driver was initially pulled over around 10 p.m. to receive a summons for using a telecommunications device while driving, according to investigating officer Dayang Aziemah. Both his Toyota Estima and the police officer’s motorcycle were parked on the side of the road.
Q: What caused the injuries to the Singaporean driver and the police officer?
A: They were struck from behind by a Honda Civic driven by a 32-year-old Malaysian man while standing by the road after the traffic stop.
While the driver and the officer were standing near the Singaporean’s car, the Honda Civic collided with them. Preliminary breath tests revealed the Malaysian driver had an alcohol content level of 154mg per 100ml, significantly exceeding the legal limit. The driver was not injured in the crash.
Both the Singaporean man and the police officer were taken to a hospital in Johor Baru for treatment. The Singaporean driver, however, left the hospital on Jan. 28 after being visited by a family member, opting to continue his care in Singapore. Authorities have not disclosed which hospital he was admitted to in Singapore.
The Malaysian driver was charged on Jan. 29 with causing injury while driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, in violation of the Road Transportation Act. He entered a plea of not guilty, Inspector Dayang said.
Johor Baru police are now appealing to the public for any witnesses to the incident to come forward and assist with their investigation.
