Kuala Kedah, Malaysia – A worker at an aluminium shop, Han Boon Hau, entered a plea of not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court for causing the death of a robbery suspect. The incident occurred when Han Boon Hau, in an attempt to escape from three robbers, accidentally killed one of them with his car, leading to a murder probe. The charges alleged that he caused the death of Mohd Shazwan Idzauddin Ishak through a reckless or negligent act behind the BSN building in Kuala Kedah. Han Boon Hau, 33, faced charges under Section 304A of the Penal Code for causing death by negligence, which carries a penalty of imprisonment for two years, a fine, or both.

During the court proceedings, Deputy Public Prosecutor J Banusha handled the prosecution, while lawyer Lim Wei Yong represented the accused. Banusha requested bail to be set at RM15,000 (US$3,170) for Han Boon Hau, citing the severity of the charges. However, the defense argued for a lower bail amount due to the accused’s marital status, health issues, and limited monthly income of RM1,200 (US$253). The Magistrate, Siti Norhidayah, set bail at RM3,000 (US$634) with one surety and an additional condition requiring the accused to report to the police station every month. Han Boon Hau paid the bail as required, and the court scheduled a mention date for the case on 19th May.

Additionally, in the Sessions Court, the other two individuals involved in the robbery attempt, Muhammad Zaki Zabani Osman and Zazimi Hamid, collectively faced charges for attempting to rob Han Boon Hau. Both pleaded not guilty after the charges were read out in front of Judge Noor Zaihan Mohamad Ali. They are being prosecuted under Section 395 of the Penal Code for gang robbery, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment and caning upon conviction. The court did not offer bail to any of the accused who did not have legal representation, setting the next mention date for the case on 28th April.

The legal proceedings in these cases highlight the complexity and intensity of the situation, shedding light on the intricacies of the justice system in Malaysia. The details of the events leading to the death of the robbery suspect bring to the forefront the challenges faced by individuals navigating dangerous situations. As the cases progress through the Malaysian courts, the outcomes will have a significant impact on the lives of all involved parties, shaping the narrative of justice and accountability in the country.