Nine pilgrims injured in bus crash
MAKKAH: Nine Malaysian haj pilgrims on the way from Mina to their accommodation building here were injured in a bus accident on Thursday.
Those injured — three men and six women — were sent to the hospital. The accident involved two buses transporting Malaysian pilgrims from Mina back here.
The pilgrims, who had completed their stoning ritual, were discharged after observation. The most serious injury involved a dislocated shoulder.
These pilgrims were among 16,200 Malaysian pilgrims who had completed their stoning ritual a day earlier than the rest in accordance with the nafar awal practice.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of religious affairs Datuk Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa, who visited the injured pilgrims at their accommodation building, said the accident happened at around 8.40am (local time) on Thursday.
“As traffic was congested, the bus transporting the pilgrims hit the back of another bus.
“The jolt caused pilgrims in the bus at the back to sustain injuries.
“Tabung Haji despatched its emergency team comprising medical and counselling personnel to the site, with representatives from Muassasah Southeast Asia.
“The injured pilgrims were sent to the hospital but all have been discharged.”
He assured family members in Malaysia that there was nothing to worry about.
He added that two buses were sent to replace the ones involved in the accident and the pilgrims had been sent to their accommodation buildings.
“I would like to thank Muassasah Southeast Asia for its help in ensuring the pilgrims reached their accommodation buildings.
“The Tabung Haji medical team will observe those involved in the accident to see if anyone needs counselling.
“From my observation, most are on the road to recovery.”
Injured pilgrim Ahmad Munawar Harun said he had to stand on the bus as it was packed.
“I held on to the railing above me. When the bus suddenly braked, my shoulder hit the top of a seat. It was very painful.
“At the hospital, I was told my shoulder is dislocated.
“It hurts and I can’t move my right hand,” he said.
His wife, Sukini Giman, who was seated when the accident happened, hit her forehead against the seat in front her and sustained bruises.
The couple from Perak hoped they could perform their tawaf and saie without much difficulties in the next few days to complete their haj.