KUALA LUMPUR: Two vehicles from the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt 850-11), deployed in the United Nations Interim Force (Unifil) mission in Lebanon, were attacked by a group of civilians on Wednesday.
In a statement today, the armed forces Strategic Defense Intelligence and Communication Headquarters said the incident which was captured on video and viralled on social media, occurred on Wednesday at 5.32pm local time in Lebanon or 11.32am Malaysian time.
"Two Fitted For Radio (FFR) vehicles belonging to Malbatt 850-11 were involved in the incident.
"The event took place when both vehicles, carrying three officers and seven other ranks, were returning to the Malbatt 850-11 Camp after completing a force protection assignment at the Shama Camp, Unifil Headquarters.
"While passing through Tes Road-Burj Al Qibli in the city of Tyre, an unusual traffic jam occurred. At that time, many civilians were managing the traffic, with numerous ambulances and fire trucks passing from both directions.
"Suddenly, a group of civilians acted aggressively, attempting to stop both Malbatt vehicles. Nearly 30 civilians then threw stones and punctured the tyres of all Malbatt vehicles using sharp objects."
To avoid further escalation, the convoy leader directed both vehicles to stop safely at the side of the road and remain inside while awaiting assistance.
"The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) arrived at the location and successfully managed the situation. The LAF also coordinated a loader to transport the vehicles and Malbatt personnel back to the Marakah Camp.
"All personnel and vehicles arrived safely at Marakah Camp at 7.39pm local time or 1.39am Malaysian time. No injuries were reported among the officers and Malbatt personnel involved. However, both vehicles sustained some damage.
"Malbatt 850-11 will continue its routine assignments as mandated by Unifil, and all parties are requested not to speculate on the incident, which could tarnish the image of the armed forces and the Defence Ministry," read the statement.