SUNGAI PETANI: The Sessions Court today imposed a fine of RM80,000 on a lorry driver who pleaded guilty to illegally possessing over 24,000 litres of diesel without the necessary licence two years ago.
Judge Azman Abu Hassan imposed the sentence after G. Chandrakumar, 47, from Taman Merak, Simpang Empat in Nibong Tebal, Penang, changed his plea during the trial.
Initially, Chandrakumar had claimed trial on Dec 27, 2023, for possessing 24,676 litres of diesel at premises No. 21, Jalan Pinang Emas 1, Pinang Emas Industrial Area on Oct 4, 2023.
The charge, framed under Section 21 of the Supply Control Act 1961, carries a maximum penalty of RM1 million or up to two years in prison, or both.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry's prosecution officer Muhammad Nizam Amir urged the court to impose a heavy fine, saying that diesel smuggling was a serious offence that affected public interest and caused losses to government funds.
In response, Chandrakumar's lawyer, T. Sharmela, requested leniency, saying that the accused had saved the court time by pleading guilty.
She also said that Chandrakumar, a bachelor earning RM2,000 per month, was supporting his elderly mother, who suffers from a heart condition.
Chandrakumar paid the fine.