Couple escapes unhurt after car hits elephant in Johor

A married couple had a frightening experience when their vehicle hit an elephant at Kilometre 50 of the Johor Bahru–Mersing road last night.

Kota Tinggi district police chief Yusof Othman said in the 9.20pm incident, the two, aged 40 and 38, were travelling from Kota Tinggi to Mersing in a Perodua Alza.

“Suddenly, four elephants crossed the road at the location, causing the driver to be unable to avoid and crash into one of the animals.

“As a result of the collision, the front part of the couple’s vehicle was severely damaged. However, both of them were unharmed,” he said in a statement.

He added that the elephants, including the one that was hit, are believed to have returned to a nearby forest after the incident, and a police report has been lodged by the victims for documentation and insurance claims.

“The authorities are advised to increase monitoring in the area, as the route is frequently used by wildlife, especially at night,” he said.

- Bernama

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