MIRI (Jan 6): A 36-year-old trader appeared in the Magistrates’ Court today, accused of raping his 27-year-old sister-in-law in an alleged incident that took place last month.
The charge, framed under Section 376(1) of the Penal Code, carries a potential punishment of up to 20 years in prison and whipping if convicted.
According to the prosecution, the alleged incident occurred between 2am and 3am on Dec 26 at a property located in Bandar Baru Permyjaya.
During the hearing, no plea was recorded from the accused. Prosecuting officer ASP Mary Ong requested the case to be transferred to the Sessions Court and a new mention date to be set. Magistrate Sandy Yvette Freddy, who presided over the case via Zoom, approved the request and scheduled Jan 8 for further mention.
The court allowed the accused to be released on RM9,000 bail with two local sureties. Additional conditions were imposed, including prohibiting the accused from interfering with the victim and her family. He is also required to report to the Bekenu police station monthly until the case is resolved.
The accused was unrepresented during the court proceedings.
The case has drawn public attention, highlighting the serious legal consequences of crimes involving sexual violence and the importance of ensuring justice for the victim.