Miri Man Sentenced to Five Years’ Imprisonment for Setting Fire to Church Doors
Background
On March 19, 2025, the doors of the St Dominic and the Rosary Church in Taman Tunku, Miri, Sarawak, were set on fire, causing estimated damages of RM1,800. The perpetrator, 30-year-old Robinson Jimbun Kadum, was subsequently charged with committing mischief under Section 435 of the Penal Code.
Investigation and Charges
A police investigation revealed that Robinson had ignited a plastic bottle filled with flammable liquid to set the doors ablaze. He was charged in the Miri sessions court with two counts of setting fire to the church doors, which resulted in the damage mentioned above.
Plea and Sentence
Robinson pleaded guilty to the charge and asked for leniency, citing that this was his first offense. In mitigation, he emphasized that he was under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident. Judge Azreena Aziz imposed a five-year imprisonment sentence, as provided for under Section 435 of the Penal Code, which also allows for a fine or both upon conviction. Deputy public prosecutor Asymawi Ghazali prosecuted the case, while Robinson was unrepresented by legal counsel.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the importance of addressing drug addiction and providing support to individuals struggling with substance abuse. The sentence handed down to Robinson serves as a deterrent to others who may consider similar actions, and it is a reminder of the consequences of committing criminal acts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the extent of the damage caused by the fire?
- The fire caused estimated damages of RM1,800 to the St Dominic and the Rosary Church in Taman Tunku, Miri, Sarawak.
- What was the motive behind the fire?
- Robinson Jimbun Kadum, the perpetrator, was under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident and had ignited a plastic bottle filled with flammable liquid to set the doors ablaze.
- What was the sentence handed down to Robinson?
- Judge Azreena Aziz imposed a five-year imprisonment sentence on Robinson, as provided for under Section 435 of the Penal Code, which also allows for a fine or both upon conviction.