KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 20 – Two vehicles belonging to the Malaysian Battalion 850-11 (Malbatt 850-11) serving with the United Nations Interim Force (Unifil) in Lebanon were attacked by a group of civilians on Wednesday.
The Malaysian Armed Forces said the incident involved three officers and seven enlisted personnel returning to Camp Marakah after completing a mission at Unifil headquarters at Camp Shama.
“Two Fitted for Radio (FFR) vehicles were involved in the incident as they navigated through an unusual traffic jam on the Tes Road-Burj Al Qibli route in Tyre,” it said.
“At the time, civilians were managing traffic due to the influx of ambulances and fire trucks.
“Suddenly, a group of nearly 30 civilians attempted to stop the Malbatt vehicles, resorting to throwing rocks and puncturing tyres with sharp objects.
“To prevent further escalation, the movement commander instructed the vehicles to pull over safely and remain inside while awaiting assistance,” the statement said.
The Lebanon Armed Forces (LAF) responded promptly, arriving at the scene to control the situation. They also coordinated a loader to facilitate the safe return of the vehicles and personnel back to Marakah Camp.
“All members of Malbatt 850-11 and their vehicles arrived safely at the camp by 1.39am Malaysian time.
“Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the officers and personnel; however, both vehicles sustained some damage.”
