Putra Heights: Police confirm excavation work before explosion
The activity took place approximately 30 metres from the explosion's epicentre and was intended for sewage pipe replacement.
SHAH ALAM – Selangor police have confirmed that excavation work was carried out near the site of the gas pipe explosion in Putra Heights, which occurred on April 1.
Selangor Police Chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said that the activity took place approximately 30 metres from the explosion's epicentre and was intended for sewage pipe replacement.
“The excavation work was halted on March 30. It was conducted using two machines—a backhoe and an excavator. One of the machines is feared to have been buried in the explosion crater,” he said at a press conference on Friday.
He said, however, the police and relevant agencies needed about two more weeks to investigate if the works had triggered the explosion from the gas pipeline.
“For now, the respective agencies are conducting stabilisation works on the ground before we can dig the ground to conduct further investigations,” he said.
He added that the police have identified the developer, contractor, subcontractor, and workers involved in the project.
Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the excavation activities were directly linked to the gas pipe explosion.
“We are examining various factors, including the depth of the excavation, its proximity to the gas pipeline and any potential triggers of the explosion,” he said.
So far, statements have been recorded from 56 witnesses, including construction workers, contractors, and victims present at the scene.
Among the key witnesses was a security guard who was about 30 metres from the explosion site, in front of a row of new shop lots under construction.
“The witness was also injured and reportedly saw the incident unfold,” he added.
The case is being investigated to determine whether elements of sabotage or negligence were involved.
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