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PETALING JAYA - A mechanic was sentenced to five years’ jail by the Sessions Court here today after pleading guilty to attempting to murder a police corporal by ramming into him, in an incident near Damansara Damai, last week.
Judge Noor Ruzilawati Mohd Nor meted out the punishment to Tan Teek Lai, 33, and ordered that he serve the jail sentence from the date of his arrest on Oct 10.
According to the charge, Tan, who was driving a Proton Wira, attempted to murder Corporal Muhamad Firdaus Maulud by ramming his car into the victim, causing him to suffer a fracture to his left arm.
The offence was allegedly committed at Jalan Sungai Buloh-Kepong, Damansara, here, at 6.21 pm on Oct 9. The charge was framed under Section 307 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum jail term of 20 years.
According to the facts of the case, personnel from the Mobile Patrol Vehicle (MPV) unit, who were conducting patrols, spotted a suspiciously driven vehicle and ordered the driver to stop. However, Tan refused to cooperate and instead fled, ramming into several vehicles belonging to members of the public.
Muhamad Firdaus then attempted to pull the accused out of the vehicle after seeing him holding a pistol. However, Tan suddenly accelerated the car again, causing the victim to suffer a fracture to his left arm.
Deputy public prosecutor Nurfadzlin Mahmad Zulhasnan sought a stiff sentence, citing the public interest and the need to deter the accused and members of the public from committing similar offences.
"The incident not only involved a police officer, but also members of the public whose vehicles were damaged. Furthermore, the accused’s actions posed a danger to the public,” she said.
However, Tan, who was unrepresented, appealed for a lighter sentence, saying that he cared for his elderly and ailing parents. He also pledged not to repeat the offence and apologised to the police personnel involved. - BERNAMA
