A late night fire tore through a fourth-floor residence in Taman Jumbo, Petagas, leaving two firefighters injured after suffering electric shocks during the operation.

The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) responded swiftly, with teams arriving just six minutes after the call was received at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday night.

The blaze completely destroyed the 20’ x 30’ unit above a shoplot, according to Operation Commander PBK II Linda Eslao Wagis.

“Our teams faced a challenging situation as the fire spread rapidly,” she said. “Unfortunately, two of our personnel were electrocuted during the effort. One was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, while the other received treatment at the scene. Both are in stable condition.”

Despite the high-risk conditions, the fire was contained by 12:40 a.m. using offensive and defensive firefighting techniques. 

Water was sourced from a nearby hydrant and a fire tanker, with 38 firefighters from Putatan, Kota Kinabalu, and Penampang stations involved in the operation.

Senior Operation Commander PPgB Noor Sherriyana Bohari commended the firefighters’ dedication. 

“Their quick response prevented the fire from spreading further, and no civilian casualties were reported. But the incident highlights the risks our personnel face every day.”

The cause of the fire and an estimate of damages are still under investigation.

The fire was fully extinguished by 1:40 a.m. – January 22, 2025.