SELANGOR police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan today said excavation work was being carried out about 30 metres away from the gas pipeline fire site in Putra Heights.
He said work began in mid-March and stopped on March 30 and the excavator which was left at the site was likely also buried in the fire.
"We have since identified the developer involved. They were carrying out work to replace sewer pipes in the area.
"We are still investigating to determine if there was any connection between the work being done and the gasline explosion," he said.
To date, he said 56 witnesses have been called to have their statements recorded to assist investigations.
He said efforts now are focused on stabilising the ground at the site of the gas pipeline explosion as this would enable further investigation into the incident.
Hussein said authorities are targeting to begin analysing the 10m-deep crater measuring 21m by 24m by April 15, following the completion of stabilising activities.
He added that the police will review the system data from Petronas regarding the pipeline, which originated from Kerteh, Terengganu.
The pipeline runs from Kerteh, Terengganu to Segamat, Johor and extends all the way to Perlis and Thailand.
He also said that a preliminary report is expected in just over two weeks, with the full report two weeks later.
"The police have also opened one investigation paper, focusing on mischief and negligence," he said.
He also confirmed that no bodies were found so far at the site and as of now, no missing person reports had been filed in relation to the incident
According to the Fire and Rescue Department, three elements could cause an explosion: gas, oxygen, and an ignition source.
"A gas leak alone would not trigger an explosion. This is what has been shared by the department, meaning that even if there was a gas leak, an explosion would not have occurred without an ignition source.
"If a gas leak did happen, what could have caused the ignition in that area… so we need to investigate further," added Hussein. - April 4, 2025
