M’sians Outraged as Kelantan Store Owner ‘Only’ Jailed 2 Weeks for Molesting Elderly Customer During Ramadan

A shocking incident took place in Mukim Pauh Sembilan, Bachok, Kelantan, during Ramadan, involving a customer of a grocery store owned by the suspect.

In a statement, Kelantan Police Chief CP Dato’ Haji Mohd Yusoff bin Mamat said the incident, believed to have occurred around 7:25 AM on Saturday (14 March), involved an elderly victim.

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Arrest and charges

Yusoff added that after hugging the woman, the suspect committed an indecent act. However, she managed to escape and fled the store in fear.

“The incident is believed to have happened around 7:25 AM on 14 March, when the victim visited a grocery store owned by the suspect. The suspect allegedly hugged her and committed an indecent act,” the Kelantan Police Chief stated.

The victim later filed a police report, and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) successfully arrested the 55-year-old man the following day (15 March).

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Sentencing and penalties

The store owner was charged in court yesterday (17 March) and pleaded guilty to the offence. He was sentenced to two weeks in prison and fined RM1,000.

“Following the investigation, on 17 March, the suspect was charged at the Bachok Magistrate’s Court under Section 354 of the Penal Code,” Yusoff said.

He added that the fine has been paid, and the accused will serve his two-week prison sentence effective from the date of his arrest.

Netizens’ reactions

The light sentence has sparked a wave of concern online, with many questioning the severity of the punishment:

“Why only 2 weeks?”

“I feel so disgusted. Even the elderly can become targets.”

“So many cases happening these days. I’m honestly embarrassed because it’s my own village.”

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments!

Also read: Nurse At Melaka Hospital Allegedly Sexually Harassed By Elderly Covid-19 Patient In ICU Ward