Avitan Shalom’s Trial Adjourned to Provide Hebrew Interpreter

Background

Avitan Shalom, a 39-year-old Israeli national, was charged last year under Section 7(1) of the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971 for trafficking in six guns, and Section 8 of the Arms Act 1960 for possessing 200 bullets.

The Trial

The sessions court in Kuala Lumpur has adjourned Avitan’s trial to January 13 to provide him with a Hebrew interpreter. Avitan claimed that he only understood basic English and needed a Hebrew interpreter throughout the trial.

Avitan’s Claim

Avitan told the court that he had informed his lawyer several times that he did not understand English very well. However, Judge Norina Zainal Abidin questioned why Avitan had waited nine months to raise the issue.

Judge’s Ruling

The judge asked Avitan if he still remembered the two charges he faced last year, and if he recalled informing the court that he could communicate in simple English. The judge noted that neither Avitan nor his lawyer had informed the court that he needed an interpreter.

Defence Argument

Avitan’s lawyer, Naran Singh, argued that Section 270 of the Criminal Procedure Code clearly states that the accused must be provided with an interpreter if evidence is given in a language that he cannot understand. Singh emphasized that the defence would not compromise if Avitan was not given an interpreter.

Prosecutor’s Response

Deputy Public Prosecutor Mustaffa P Kunyalam did not object to the defence’s request, stating that numerous reports to be furnished contained technical terms, including chemistry, forensics, and firearm reports.

Judge’s Solution

If a Hebrew interpreter could not be found, the judge ruled that the trial would proceed in simple English.

Background of the Case

Avitan was charged in April last year for trafficking in six guns and possessing 200 bullets. The offences allegedly took place in a hotel room on Jalan Ampang between 6.46pm on March 26 and 6pm on March 28.

Conclusion

The adjournment of Avitan’s trial to provide a Hebrew interpreter highlights the importance of ensuring that accused persons have a fair and equal opportunity to defend themselves. The defence’s argument that Section 270 of the Criminal Procedure Code must be upheld demonstrates the need for clarity and consistency in the legal system.

FAQs

* What is Avitan Shalom charged with?
+ Trafficking in six guns and possessing 200 bullets.
* Why was Avitan’s trial adjourned?
+ To provide a Hebrew interpreter.
* What is the significance of Section 270 of the Criminal Procedure Code?
+ It states that the accused must be provided with an interpreter if evidence is given in a language that he cannot understand.