A heartbreaking fire incident in Sabah claimed the life of a 16-year-old teenager with disabilities (OKU) after he became trapped inside a burning house early this morning.
The tragedy happened at around 3.20am in Kampung Torintidon, Jalan Kampung Lampada, in Kota Marudu.
Older brother tried desperately to save him
The victim, identified as Lorex Sindam, was believed to have been trapped inside the house as flames engulfed the entire structure.
His older brother, 28-year-old Razani Sindam, reportedly rushed into the burning house in an attempt to rescue him.
However, the rescue attempt ended in tragedy after Razani suffered burns on several parts of his body.
Villagers later sent Razani to Kota Marudu Hospital for further treatment before firefighters arrived at the scene.
Firefighters faced difficulties reaching the village
According to Kota Marudu Fire and Rescue Station chief Debli Mamoi, authorities dispatched 10 firefighters along with a Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) engine and a Vigo vehicle to the location, which was about 22km away from the station.
However, the journey was not easy.
The fire engine was only able to travel up to 14km near Sekolah Kebangsaan Lampada due to poor road conditions.
Firefighters then had to continue the journey using another vehicle as the road leading into the village was unpaved.
When the team finally arrived at 4.48am, the non-permanent house measuring about 78 square metres had already been completely destroyed by the fire.
Teen found burnt to death inside house
Firefighters immediately carried out extinguishing operations using water sourced from nearby villagers.
During inspections inside the burnt house, they discovered Lorex’s charred body among the ruins.
His remains were later handed over to the police for further action.
Debli also revealed that the operation faced additional challenges due to weak and unstable phone network coverage in the village area.
The operation was fully concluded at around 6.53am after authorities confirmed there were no further dangers at the scene.
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