BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Forty cases of vehicle fires were registered countrywide by Brunei's Fire and Rescue Department from January to September this year, a record high compared to the previous years, local media reported on Friday.
According to the Borneo Bulletin, 30 of the 40 cases were registered in the Brunei-Muara District, seven cases were reported in the Belait District, and three cases in the Tutong District.
The total cost of the damages has been estimated at 212,850 Brunei dollars (153,871 U.S. dollars). Electrical problems, mechanical problems, impact from accidents, and suspicious reasons such as arson are identified as the four main causes of vehicle fires.
Brunei's Land Transport Department (JPD) urges members of the public to stop carrying out modifications to their vehicles and their wiring systems without following the vehicles' original specifications.
The JPD also advising the public to refrain from employing the services of unaccredited mechanics, as this can result in shoddy work that can affect their cars' safety.
