A FOREIGN worker tragically lost his life in Kuala Lumpur last night when a spider lift crane he was operating toppled, crushing him and two nearby vehicles, police reported.
The incident occurred around 10.40 pm as the man, identified as a 32-year-old Bangladeshi, was performing maintenance work on a building sign along Jalan Perak.
Assistant Commissioner Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa, head of the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), said preliminary investigations indicate that the crane, controlled via remote, likely struck the edge of the pavement, lost balance, and overturned.
"The overturned crane then fell on the operator as well as two nearby vehicles, a Proton Persona and a BMW 523i," Mohd Zamzuri stated.
He added that while both vehicles were occupied—one with a driver and passenger, the other with only a driver—none of the occupants sustained injuries and were reported safe.
"Unfortunately, the crane operator was pronounced dead at the scene by a Medical Assistant from Kuala Lumpur Hospital," he confirmed.
Authorities are conducting further investigations to determine the crane’s ownership, the contractor responsible, and whether the necessary work permits from Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) were in place. CCTV footage from the scene is also being obtained to assist in the inquiry.
The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. Police are urging members of the public or witnesses with information to come forward to assist with the investigation.
Those with information can contact the Tun H S Lee Traffic Police Station at 03-2071 9999 or any nearby police station. - February 7, 2026
