Bus company in Gerik crash closes office, no staff seen
KOTA BARU: The bus company involved in the fatal crash in Gerik last week, which claimed the lives of 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students, is believed to have temporarily ceased operations.
A check at the company's premises in Batu 6, Jalan Kuala Krai, this morning found the main office closed, with no staff in sight.
Only one bus was seen parked near the office, which is located next to the owner's residence.
Attempts by members of the media to obtain comments from the owner were unsuccessful.
Local media personnel had visited the premises to seek the owner's reaction following a statement by the Transport Ministry that no brake failure was found in the crash.
It was reported yesterday that a preliminary investigation into the Gerik crash, which claimed the lives of UPSI students, found no evidence of brake failure or mechanical malfunction.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the initial technical report by Puspakom confirmed that all brake components, including the linings and drums on each axle, were in good condition.
The inspection also found no signs of uneven wear or thinning that could have contributed to the crash.
Other essential systems, such as the tyres, steering, and suspension, were also inspected and found to comply with safety standards, with no signs of failure.
Last Monday, the bus, carrying 42 UPSI students, was travelling from Jertih, Terengganu, to the university's main campus when it collided with a Perodua Alza at Km 53 of the East–West Highway.
Thirteen students died at the scene, and two others were pronounced dead in the hospital.
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