GEORGE TOWN, February 2 — Two enforcement officers from the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) were injured following a fire involving confiscated gas-filled balloons at Lebuh Union, in front of the MBPP Licensing Department office, at about 7.55pm on February 1.
The incident occurred after MBPP enforcement officers confiscated balloons and related equipment from unlicensed vendors operating along Jalan Gottlieb, following repeated non-compliance with enforcement warnings issued since January 31.
While attempting to safely release the gas by puncturing the balloons in an area without public presence, the balloons suddenly exploded and caught fire, resulting in injuries to the officers and damage to the rear of an MBPP vehicle and seized equipment.
MBPP said one injured officer is currently receiving treatment at Penang Hospital for burns to both hands and part of the face, while the second officer sustained minor injuries and is resting at home. The council has lodged reports with the Fire and Rescue Department and the Royal Malaysia Police.
And investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident. MBPP added that it is reviewing safety procedures to prevent similar incidents from recurring and reiterated its commitment to public and staff safety.
