Kuala Lumpur: A 35-year-old graphic designer has entered a plea of not guilty at the Sessions Court in Kuala Lumpur for allegedly robbing an Indian national of a gold bar and a mobile phone worth over RM260,000 last week. M. Ramesh Raj, along with another individual who is currently on the run, is accused of robbing Mohammed Mubarak Sikkander of a gold bar weighing 850g and a Vivo mobile phone, resulting in a total loss of RM266,050. The alleged incident occurred in the back alley of a restaurant on Jalan Masjid India, Dang Wangi at 2:10 pm on February 19.
The charge against Ramesh is under Section 395 of the Penal Code, coupled with Section 43, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine, or whipping upon conviction. Also appearing in court, a 31-year-old deliveryman named J. Francis pleaded not guilty to the robbery of Mohd Zainuddin Abdullah, 51, of £25,000 (RM150,750) and RM34,720 in cash. The alleged incident took place at an apartment in Dang Wangi at 2:20 pm on February 21.
The Deputy Public Prosecutor, Ngoh Jess Lynn, highlighted that these offenses are non-bailable. However, she requested bail amounts of RM20,000 for Ramesh and RM16,000 for Francis, each with one surety. The additional condition was for the accused to report to the nearest police station monthly. Ramesh’s lawyer, Iqhmar Syafiq Mohd Azmi, sought a lower bail amount citing that his client is the sole provider for his family.
On the other hand, lawyer K. Komagan, representing Francis, also sought a reduced bail amount due to the accused’s disability in his left hand and family responsibilities. The proposed additional reporting condition was not opposed. Judge Norina Zainol Abidin granted bail of RM10,000 with one surety for both accused individuals, with the requirement to report to a police station monthly.
Ramesh’s case is scheduled for mention on April 5, while Francis’ case is set for April 4. – Bernama
