KOTA KINABALU: A narcotics sergeant pleaded not guilty to a charge of soliciting a RM2,000 bribe to refrain from taking action against drug distribution activities in Kudat.
Zakaria Mohd. Jasni, 40, entered the plea before Corruption Court Judge Jason Juga.
The accused, on June 18, 2021, at a seafood product company in Kudat, corruptly attempted to obtain a sum of RM 2,000 to be deposited into another individual's account.
"It is as an inducement for not taking any action related to your official duties, specifically refraining from taking action against drug distribution conducted by an individual in the Kudat district, Sabah.
"Consequently, you have committed an offence under Section 17(a) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, punishable under Section 24(1) of the same Act," according to a charge sheet.
Zakaria, who is now based in Semporna, was allowed bail of RM10,000 with RM3,000 deposit, as well as a local surety.
He has to report to the MACC office every two months and surrender his international passport to the court.
The policeman was unrepresented while MACC was represented by prosecuting officer Norsham Saharom.