KUALA BERANG: Two siblings were found dead, while another was injured after getting trapped in a landslide incident in Kampung Bukit Apit, Ajil here today.
The bodies of Puteri Sajidah Azman, 16, and her younger sister, Siti Fatimah, 13, were found at 6.32pm and 6.59pm respectively.
Earlier, the survivor, Uzair, 17, was found at 5.17pm.
Terengganu Fire and Rescue Department director Hassan 'As'ari Omar said a distress call was received at 4.59pm, after which the Kuala Berang and Wakaf Tapai Fire and Rescue Department teams were rushed to the scene to carry out rescue operations.
He said that upon their arrival, they found three victims buried in the landslide.
"The first victim, a 17-year-old male, was found safe and was taken to Sultanah Nur Zahirah Hospital in Kuala Terengganu for treatment.
"The second victim, a 16-year-old female, was found at 6.32pm, while the third victim was found at 6.59pm.
"Two siblings who died were found buried under the landslide debris and at the front part of the house," he said when met at the scene of the incident.
He said the remains of the two students of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Ajil here were handed over to the police and brought to the Forensic Department of HSNZ for post-mortem.
He said the operation, which involved various agencies, was concluded after two hours at 7pm.
Hassan 'As'ari advised residents living near the incident site to temporarily evacuate to prevent a recurrence of the landslide, especially with heavy rain expected.
He also urged residents living near hillside areas throughout the state to remain vigilant and regularly monitor the condition of their surroundings.