KUALA LUMPUR: The Sessions Court in Kuala Lumpur handed down a six-year jail term and one stroke of the cane to a scrap metal worker on Wednesday (March 20) for robbing a Japanese woman and using her ATM card to purchase four packets of curry powder earlier this month. The accused, C. Selvam, 35, pleaded guilty to the charge before Judge Norina Zainol Abidin.
Selvam, along with an accomplice who is still at large, was charged with robbing Kayoko Shimada of her bag which contained a bank ATM card, passport, mobile phone, and RM100 at Lorong Pudu 14 in Bukit Bintang at 7.10 am on March 4. The charge falls under Section 395 of the Penal Code and carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and caning.
The court also ruled that the man must start serving his jail term from the date of his arrest on March 13. Deputy Public Prosecutor Muhammad Muhairi Mohamed Noh urged the court to impose a fitting sentence as a deterrent for the accused.
During the mitigation plea, Selvam’s lawyer, Kalwant Singh, appealed for leniency citing his client’s clean record and familial responsibilities. The lawyer stated that Selvam, in a bid to support his family, used the victim’s bank card to purchase four packets of curry powder.
The judge ultimately sentenced Selvam to six years in prison and one stroke of the cane, marking a stern punishment for his actions. The court emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the need to deter others from committing similar offenses.
Following the sentencing, Selvam has expressed remorse and made a commitment to not engage in criminal activities in the future. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and respecting the rights of others.
The victim, Kayoko Shimada, was left traumatized by the incident but expressed relief that justice was served in the form of the perpetrator’s conviction. The court’s decision sends a strong message that crimes such as robbery will not be tolerated in society.
As Selvam begins his prison term, he will have the opportunity to reflect on his actions and work towards rehabilitation. The case highlights the consequences of criminal behavior and the impact it can have on both victims and perpetrators.
Ultimately, the court’s ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding justice and holding individuals accountable for their actions. It is hoped that this case will instill a sense of responsibility and respect for the law in the wider community.
The incident serves as a cautionary tale for would-be offenders and underscores the need for individuals to act within the bounds of the law to maintain a safe and harmonious society.
