Six squatter houses buried in landslide in Johor

Six squatter houses were destroyed in a landslide at Kampung Tahana, Jalan Padu, Larkin here early today, with losses estimated at RM30,000.

Johor Baharu Selatan deputy district police chief Supt Abdul Wahib Musa said the landslide, which occurred about 12.30am, affected 24 people, consisting of 11 men, nine women and four children.

However, none of them were injured, he said, adding that the houses were occupied by Indonesian families.

"Initial investigation found no casualty in the incident and losses were estimated at RM30,000, involving six houses and three motorcycles which were buried under the landslide," he told reporters after visiting the scene today.

Abdul Wahib said the victims were believed to have sought temporary shelter with relatives.

The police would inform the Land Office today on action to be taken and also Syarikat Air Johor Sdn Bhd and Tenaga Nasional Bhd to ensure water and power supply in the affected area had been reconnected, he added.

Abdul Wahib said the landslide occurred at a construction site and that the developer might be advised to stop work temporarily.

Checks by the Fire and Rescue Department found the area still vulnerable to landslide because of the land structure there, especially on rainy days, he added.

Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Johor Fire and Rescue Department advised occupants of 10 remaining houses in the area to vacate their home for their own safety.