Singapore-based factory operator claims trial to reckless riding, hurting policeman

KOTA TINGGI: A 25-year-old Singapore-based factory operator claimed trial in the magistrate's court here today on charges of reckless and dangerous riding and voluntarily causing grievous hurt to a traffic policeman on Sunday.

S. Hari Kumar pleaded not guilty after the charges were read before magistrate Norkhalida Farhana Abu Bakar.

He was charged under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 with riding a motorcycle recklessly and dangerously along Jalan Yusuf at 10.03am on Sept 13.

The charge alleges that the offence caused Corporal Mohd Fauzi Che Zakaria to suffer fractures to his right arm.

If convicted, Hari Kumar faces up to five years' jail and a fine of up to RM15,000.

He also faces a charge under Section 333 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt to Mohd Fauzi, who was carrying out his lawful duties as a public servant.

The offence was allegedly committed at the same location at 9.45am on the same day.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years' jail and a possible fine upon conviction.

Deputy public prosecutor Wan Nuraini Shapee sought bail of RM15,000 with one surety.

Defence lawyer B. Mariammah, however, sought a lower amount, saying her client worked in Singapore, earning S$1,500 a month (about RM4,800), and supported his parents.

The court granted bail of RM5,000 for each charge, with one surety for each, and fixed Oct 5 for mention and document submission.