A police officer with the rank of corporal pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court here on Sunday to charges related to the theft of a Yamaha RXZ motorcycle engine last July. The officer, Faris Zahim Farizan, 32, made his plea before Judge Wan Suhaila Mohd in a case that has drawn attention due to the involvement of law enforcement personnel.
Faris, who is currently stationed at the Chukai Police Station, is alleged to have stolen the engine from a motorcycle belonging to a local woman. The incident is reported to have taken place between 12:45 a.m. and 1:15 a.m. on July 20 near the traffic investigation officer's office at the Kemaman District Police Headquarters.
The charge, under Section 379A(1) of the Penal Code, is a serious one. If convicted, Faris could face a prison sentence ranging from one to seven years, along with a potential fine.
In court, Police Prosecutor Muhammad Afif Mohd Amir presented the case for the prosecution. Faris was represented by defense lawyer Masliela Ismail, who appealed to the court for a reduction in bail. Masliela cited her client's family obligations and financial constraints, highlighting that Faris is married with a low income.
After hearing the appeal, the court granted bail set at RM800 with one surety. Judge Wan Suhaila subsequently scheduled the next hearing for November 27, when the case will be reexamined at the Kemaman Magistrates Court.
This incident has sparked public interest, given the involvement of a police officer, and further proceedings will determine the outcome of the allegations against Faris Zahim.
