KOTA KINABALU, July 17 — The High Court here today ordered a policeman, charged with withholding information on terrorist activities in Sabah, to enter his defence.
In meting out his decision, Justice P. Ravinthran said the prosecution, led by Datuk Nordin Hassan, had established a prima facie case against Detective Corporal Hassan Ali Basari.
He said this followed after the prosecution produced 18 witnesses over a four-day trial which began on June 24.
Ravinthran fixed July 24, 25 and 26 for hearing, with at least four witnesses, and the accused.
According to the judge, he was satisfied with the intercepted communication on Hassan’s mobile telephone numbers, which were carried out legally.
He also said the intrusion in Kampung Tanduo, Lahad Datu by the so-called Royal Sulu Forces from southern Philippines had materialised, and the accused failed to disclose the relevant information when he had every opportunity to do so.
Hassan was charged with committing the offence between January and March 3, at the Lahad Datu Special Branch office.
He was charged under Section 130M of the Penal Code which carries a maximum seven-year jail term or fine, or both if convicted.
Hassan was represented by Kamarudin Mohamad Chinki and Ram Singh. — Bernama