Two Malaysian Military Vehicles Attacked By Civilians In Lebanon

PHOTO OF UNSPLASH ILLUSTRATION/Action Parentant

JAKARTA - The Intelligence and Strategic Communication Division of the Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarters explained the incident of an attack by civilians on two military vehicles from Malaysia Battalion 850-11 (Malbatt 850-11) in Lebanon.

The incident occurred when two Malbatt 850-11 Fitted For Radio (FFR) vehicles were boarded by three officers and seven other members of the line on their way back to Camp Marakah.

The convoy of the two vehicles was carried out after completing the task of protecting troops at Shama Camp, United Nations Interim Forces Headquarters in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

When the vehicle passes through the Al Qibli Road-Burj Test route in the city of Badminton, there is an extraordinary traffic jam.

Many civilians are regulating traffic where many ambulances and fire engines are passing from both directions.

Suddenly, a group of civilians acted aggressively and tried to stop both Malbatt vehicles.

Nearly 30 civilians then threw stones and slashed all Malbatt vehicle tires using sharp weapons.

To avoid worse incidents, the head of the movement ordered both vehicles to stop on the side of the road and stay in the vehicle waiting for help.

Reported by ANTARA, Friday, September 20, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) arrived at the location and further managed to control the situation.

The LAF also helped coordinate a 'loader' to bring the vehicles and Malbatt members back to the Markah Camp.

All of their members and vehicles arrived at Camp Marakah safely at 19.39 p.m. Lebanese time (00.39 p.m. local time).

No injuries were suffered by Malbatt officers and members involved, but both vehicles suffered some damage.

Malbatt 850-11 will continue routine tasks as mandated by UNIFIL.

The Malaysian Armed Forces asked all parties not to make any speculation over events that could reflect their particular image and the Malaysian Ministry of Defense in general.