Army orders probe into latest Hobart Camp incident

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian army has set up a board of inquiry to investigate the cause of the training incident at Hobart Camp in Gurun, Kedah, which left two soldiers injured during a live-firing exercise yesterday.

It said that the live-firing range has been temporarily closed to allow investigations to proceed.

“We view this incident seriously and will ensure that safety aspects and standard operating procedures during training remain the highest priority,” it said in a statement confirming the incident that was earlier disclosed by the Kedah police.

The army said the incident occurred at about 6.15pm yesterday during a combat enhancement exercise at the camp’s firing range, involving Firdaus Che Shaharudin, a sergeant, and Felix Franchis, a corporal, both from the 4th Battalion Royal Ranger Regiment.

It said a weapon being handled by the two soldiers experienced a stoppage and failed to discharge during the live-fire session.

“The two soldiers immediately carried out the required safety procedures to manage the situation. However, the firearm suddenly exploded, causing injuries to both soldiers’ legs from shrapnel,” it said.

Both men received initial treatment at the scene from the unit’s medical officer before being taken to Sik Hospital, the army said.

It said that Firdaus had since received outpatient treatment and returned to his unit, while Felix remained warded for further treatment and monitoring at Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital in Sungai Petani.

The army also urged the public and social media users not to speculate on the incident to avoid disrupting investigations and to respect the privacy of those involved and their families.