RAUB: A 23-year-old drug addict, who was still in handcuffs, escaped from police custody shortly after she was charged with drug possession at Raub court complex yesterday.
Saidatina Aida Sahabudin, from Kampung Ulu Lepar Dong, was whisked away by a waiting accomplice on a motorcycle while waiting for her turn to climb into the back of a police truck at 4.30pm.
The drama unfolded after 12 suspects of various cases were waiting to be transported back to the Raub police station lock-up after their court hearings.
Saidatina, who was the only female suspect in the group, was escorted in a line by policemen for her turn to board the police truck.
Suddenly, a motorcyclist riding a Yamaha LC, appeared from behind one of the policeman and slammed the brakes next to Saidatina.
Without hesitation, she hopped onto the machine and the motorcycle sped off from the court complex parking area.
District police chief Superintendent Kama Azural Mohamed said a policeman tried to chase after the motorcycle but instead fell to the ground and injured both his hands.
He said Saidatina was earlier charged under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 at the Sessions Court and she had claimed trial.
"The suspect has four previous convictions under Section 15(1)(a) of the same act for drug related cases.
Checks revealed the motorcycle belonged to a 22-year-old man from Benta near here who is believed to be her boyfriend.
"Police have launched a hunt for both the suspects and we hope members of the public with information on both individuals to contact the nearest police station.
"Police stations in neighbouring districts have also been alerted about the duo," he said.