Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Cause of Tuas South Accident Involving Workers Transported on Lorry and Update for Review on Safety of Transporting Workers

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Transport in relation to the accident at Tuas South on 15 December 2024 involving a lorry transporting workers, which resulted in one fatality and two injuries 

a.     whether the cause of the passenger’s death was due to the concurrent transportation of an improperly secured item in the rear deck area; and 

b.     whether the Ministry can provide an update on the review to further improve the safety of transporting workers and prevent future accidents from occurring.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1.     The Traffic Police has commenced investigations into the accident. Preliminary investigations revealed that the lorry transported one heavy metal box with three workers in the rear deck of the lorry when the accident occurred. 

2.     The driver is being investigated for Negligent Act causing death under Sec 304A of the Penal Code 1871. 

3.     Upon completion of Police investigations, the findings will be presented during the Coroner’s Inquiry. As investigations are ongoing, the Traffic Police is unable to comment further at this point of time. 

4.     The Government will continue to work closely with stakeholders to improve the safety of all road users.