Businessman acquitted of illegal firearms possession

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KUALA LUMPUR: The Session Court yesterday acquitted and discharged a businessman of illegal possession of two rifles, eight pistols, 856 rounds of ammunition and three hand grenades seven years ago.

Sessions Court Judge Jagjit Singh made the decision after finding the prosecution had failed to prove a prima
facie case against Teo Kim Theam, 50.

Jagjit said the prosecution failed to prove the accused had knowledge, custody and control on the firearms which were found on the sofa in a room in the condominium which was rented by his girlfriend, Sally Lee Yoke Tai.

“There isn’t an iota of credible evidence to show the nexus or connection between the accused and the firearm exhibits,” he said.

Jagjit said although the accused had the key and access to the condominium but there was no evidence to show he had exclusive possession of the firearms.

Teo was charged with committing the offence at Block 31, A1-08-07, Miharja Condominium, Jalan Cheras, here, on Sept 27, 2005, at 11.10am.

Jagjit said the testimony of Supt Sharul Lali Masduki that Lee (third prosecution witness) that the firearms belonged to her boyfriend (accused) could not be trusted.

“If indeed such an important statement was made, it should have been put into writing by Supt Sharul because there is no credible evidence to support his testimony and none of the other raiding officers were called to testify on this issue,” he said.

Jagjit said the failure of the prosecution to call the maid named ‘Yoni’ at to testify had failed to prove the accused had exclusive ownership of the firearms.

He said there was evidence from investigating officer Inspector Mohd Sharil that Yoni had returned to Indonesia but no written statement was forwarded to the court.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Ahmad Nazneen Zulkifli had called nine prosecution witnesses during the trial which started on June 4 while the accused was represented by counsel Paul Krishnaraja. — Bernama