An elderly man was caught for khalwat (close proximity) with a single mother during a Syariah Crime Prevention Operation (OCJS) in the early hours of Merdeka Day (August 31).
He and the woman were among 16 people detained during an operation by the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (JAIM) at several hotels around Melaka city, according to Sinar Harian.
For illustration purposes only
They said they were too tired from celebrating Merdeka
Datuk Rahmad Mariman, Exco for Higher Education and Religious Affairs, said the 65-year-old man and 49-year-old single mother (who runs a food stall in the state) were arrested after they were found staying together in a hotel room.
He added that questioning revealed the elderly man had come to Melaka from Johor to visit his partner’s sick mother, and the pair later went to the city centre to watch the National Day fireworks.
“The couple admitted they checked into the hotel to rest after feeling exhausted from celebrating Merdeka Eve and had planned to watch the parade the next day. Both pleaded not to be charged, saying they would be embarrassed if their adult children found out,” he said.
A total of 8 couples were arrested
Rahmad added that during the operation, eight couples aged 25 to 65 (including five locals and 11 foreigners) were detained and charged under Section 53 of the Melaka State Syariah Offences Enactment 1991 for cohabiting without a legal bond.
The offence carries a fine of up to RM3,000 or a maximum two-year prison sentence, or both, if convicted. The individuals were later released on bail after giving their statements.
“JAIM will continue such operations as a measure to curb social vices and immoral behaviour, including the increasingly worrying issue of out-of-wedlock pregnancies,” he said.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments!
Also read: 23yo Woman Caught for Khalwat with 3 Men in Johor Hotel After 1 of Them Treated Her to a Meal
