Two soldiers injured by firearm explosion during training in Kedah

Two soldiers sustained knee injuries when a firearm malfunctioned during a training exercise at Kem Hobart, Kedah. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, involving a corporal and a sergeant. The 35-year-old trainer suffered a severe injury to his right knee, requiring eight stitches. The 29-year-old soldier sustained a left knee injury and is receiving treatment at Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital in Sungai Petani due to concerns about nerve damage.

Kedah Police Chief Datuk Adzli Abu Shah stated that the injuries were not caused by bullets but by shrapnel or flying debris from the sudden explosion. Initial investigations suggest a technical problem, with the weapon experiencing a 'stoppage' or failure to function during training. After safety procedures were followed, including emptying and laying down the weapon, it unexpectedly exploded.

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The investigation is now focusing on the possibility that the explosion caused foreign object fragments to ricochet, injuring both soldiers. Doctors have confirmed the injuries are consistent with being hit by foreign objects, not by bullet fire.

"The investigation is now focusing on the possibility that the explosion caused foreign object fragments to ricochet, injuring both soldiers," Adzli said. "Doctors have confirmed the injuries are consistent with being hit by foreign objects, not by bullet fire." Preliminary checks also revealed a detached regulator component in the weapon's gas system, but the exact cause requires further expert analysis.

Forensic teams from the Royal Malaysia Police and army ordnance specialists have visited the site for a detailed investigation. "Although it is believed to be caused by a technical issue and not negligence or bullet fire, we are still opening an investigation paper under Section 37 of the Firearms Act to determine the actual cause," Adzli added. Several witnesses, including a major who observed the training, have been interviewed, and official statements will be taken once the soldiers stabilize. The training involved 300 personnel from Kem Bukit Cawder, Perlis, and was scheduled to run from Sunday to Thursday.

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Although it is believed to be caused by a technical issue and not negligence or bullet fire, we are still opening an investigation paper under Section 37 of the Firearms Act to determine the actual cause.