The trailer driver who tested positive for methamphetamine following a fatal accident that killed three family members last Thursday (2 April) was charged in the Segamat Magistrate’s Court today (7 April).
The accused faces three counts of murder.
According to a report by Berita Harian, 29-year-old Muhamad Shafiq Salleh was charged with the murders of 77-year-old S. Palamiandy, 72-year-old K. Myakrishnan, and 62-year-old S. Sevendai.
The incident occurred at Kilometre 212 of Jalan Johor Bahru-Seremban at 3:50 PM.
The charges
The charges were brought under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or a prison sentence of between 30 and 40 years. If the death penalty is not imposed, the law also mandates at least 12 strokes of the cane.
When the three charges were read before Magistrate Amalina Johar, the accused nodded to indicate his understanding. No plea was recorded, as the case falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court.
Court proceedings and next steps
The prosecution was led by Deputy Public Prosecutor Nur ‘Aina Muhammad Ismail Tadj, while the accused was not represented by legal counsel.
The prosecution requested a later date for the next mention of the case, as they are currently awaiting several essential documents, including the autopsy and medical reports, the PUSPAKOM (vehicle inspection) report, as well as forensic and pathology reports.
The court granted the application and denied bail for the accused. The case is scheduled for mention again on 21 May.
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