This has to be one of the most interesting plot twists ever!
Just last week, the case of Datuk Yusoff Ayob driving on an emergency lane has garnered nationwide attention because he was the deputy director-general in Road Transport Department (JPJ). Instead of setting a good example for the people, he himself broke the law.
Source: The Star
According to The Star, the offence took place in Lingkaran Putrajaya on October 7th last year. He was charged in court a week ago for driving on the emergency lane. Instead of personally showing up at court, Yusoff sent a special officer to represent him. Is that even legal?
When asked by the reporters, the special aide said that Yusoff was attending a programme in headquarters, and therefore couldn’t make it to court. The special officer also pleaded guilty on behalf of Yusoff and was fined RM600 for breaking the law.
Days later, it was reported that Yusoff had been transferred out of RTD to Public Service Department (PSD) effective last Saturday. The decision was made by PSD and netizens were urged not to make speculations regarding the transfer. We’re just curious why he was suddenly transferred, that’s all.
Since the fine was already paid, Yusoff thought the case was settled and he could start off fresh in the new department, but Chief Justice Tan Sri Md Raus Sharif had something to say about recent events.
“The case has been sent back to the court. How can you plead guilty by way of representation?” Md Raus asked.
Kuala Lumpur High Court had ordered the case to be remitted back to the magistrate’s court and the case was mentioned earlier today. Yusoff showed up together with his lawyer, but he pleaded not guilty! What?!
Source: NST
The RM600 fine he paid earlier was returned to him and the case will be mentioned again on August 21st. His lawyer reckoned that since Yusoff was driving an official JPJ car on the day of the incident, it wasn’t necessary for him to be present in court.
We guess we’ll just have to wait until August 21st to find out the verdict!
Also read: High-Ranking JPJ Officer Fined RM600 for Driving on Emergency Lane
