KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 4 — A 68-year-old retired military officer holding the title “Datuk” was charged in the Ayer Keroh Magistrates’ Court here today with using criminal force with intent to outrage the modesty of a 20-year-old female caddie last month.

According to Harian Metro, Yahya Hashim pleaded not guilty after the charge was read to him before Magistrate Uthman Abd Ghani.

The charge alleged that Yahya used criminal force against the victim with intent to outrage her modesty at the Tiara Melaka Golf & Country Club golf course in Jalan Gapam, Bukit Katil, in Ayer Keroh, Melaka, between 8.30am and 12.30pm on August 25.

The offence falls under Section 354 of the Penal Code, which provides for up to 10 years’ imprisonment, or a fine, or whipping, or any two of the punishments upon conviction.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Syauqi Mardia Baharudin offered bail of RM5,000 with an additional condition that the accused not disturb the victim, as the location of the alleged offence is her workplace.

Lawyer Melvin Tay, representing Yahya, asked the court to reduce the bail amount, saying his client was retired, had no fixed income and lived with his wife.

The court was also told that Yahya had a prostate-related health condition requiring treatment.

Magistrate Uthman then allowed Yahya to be released on RM2,500 bail with one surety, while agreeing to the prosecution’s additional condition that he not disturb the victim until the case is concluded.

The court fixed September 28 for mention of the case.