Army sets up inquiry board, suspends heavy weapons live-fire training after Hobart Camp incident leaves two soldiers hurt

KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 — The Malaysian Army has formed a board of inquiry to determine the cause of the incident involving two soldiers who were injured during a live-fire training exercise at Hobart Camp in Gurun, Kedah, yesterday.

Army Chief General Tan Sri Azhan Md Othman said all live-fire training involving support weapons has also been temporarily suspended pending the outcome of the investigation, BuletinTV3 reported today.

He said the special board will examine three key areas — human factors, technical issues, and compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Azhan said the duration of the probe will depend on witness statements, technical inspections of the weapon involved, and a full analysis of the incident.

He also noted that initial checks found no SOP violations in the handling of the weapon during the exercise.

“The procedures that were supposed to be followed after firing was halted were complied with. Based on initial checks, there was no breach in terms of procedures and regulations,” he said.

According to him, the incident occurred during training involving a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) when a regulator component detached during firing.

The personnel operating the weapon immediately stopped firing and followed safety procedures, ensuring the weapon was secured before placing it on the ground.

“However, while the personnel were attempting to locate the detached regulator component for replacement, the weapon suddenly exploded, causing debris to strike both soldiers operating the weapon,” he said.

On preventive measures, he said all live-fire exercises begin with strict inspections of weapons, ammunition and explosives to ensure they are safe and fit for use.

Soldiers are also required to complete theoretical training before being allowed to proceed with live ammunition drills.

Yesterday, two soldiers from Bukit Cowder Camp in Perlis were injured during a heavy weapons training phase at the Hobart Camp firing range.

A corporal trainee sustained injuries to his left knee and is still receiving treatment at Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital in Sungai Petani, with suspected nerve damage due to heavy bleeding.

Meanwhile, a sergeant instructor suffered a thigh injury and required eight stitches.