KUANTAN: A 61-year-old Felda settler claimed trial to three counts of fraud involving RM45,000 at the magistrate's court, here, today.
Abu Bakar Maalim made the plea after the charges were read out to him before Magistrate Nor Azizah Aling.
He had allegedly deceived another Felda settler Alias Jaafar to hand over RM10,000 as an investment for a non-existent oil palm project at Felda Lepar Hilir Satu in Gambang here between 7am and 11pm on April 7, 2019.
The father-of-seven also faced a second charge of convincing Alias to surrender RM5,000 to invest in a non-existent oil palm project at Felda Lepar Hilir Satu in Gambang here between 7am and 11pm in October last year.
In the third charge, Abu Bakar had cheated Alias to hand over RM30,000 to invest in a non-existent oil palm project at Felda Lepar Hilir Satu in Gambang here between 7am and 11pm on Jan 9 this year.
Abu Bakar was charged under Section 420 of the Penal Code which carries a jail term of up to 10 years and a fine, if convicted.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Wan Azreen Wan Zaid prosecuted while the accused, who was not represented, told the court that he earns RM2,000 a month as a settler and was the sole breadwinner for the family.
Nor Azizah set bail at RM15,000 with one surety and fixed May 31 for mention.