When Stealing is a More Serious Offence than Causing a Person’s Death
A Double Standard in the Justice System?
A recent incident in Ipoh has left many questioning the severity of punishments handed out by the courts. A 24-year-old woman, Siti Nuridah Jumli, was fined RM2,500 for causing the death of a 64-year-old man, Kamar Mat Sarin, by slapping his face and the back of his head. In contrast, a jobless man, Engkapi Keai, was sentenced to four years and six months in prison for stealing a handphone to pay for his son’s hospital bill.
The Incident
On October 25, Nuridah was seen slapping Kamar’s face and the back of his head at a supermarket in Klebang, Ipoh. Witnesses reported the incident, and CCTV cameras captured it. Despite the severity of the crime, Nuridah was given a fine of RM2,500, with the option to serve a two-month jail sentence if she fails to pay the fine.
The Punishment
The punishment handed out to Nuridah has left many wondering if the justice system is prioritizing the loss of a lifeless handphone over the loss of a human life. Engkapi, on the other hand, was charged under Section 392 of the Penal Code for robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine. His punishment was deemed more severe than Nuridah’s, despite the fact that Kamar’s death was a direct result of Nuridah’s actions.
A Double Standard?
This incident raises questions about the double standard in the justice system. Why is the severity of the crime in the case of Kamar, who died because of the assault, considered minimal in comparison to a stolen handphone? Engkapi’s actions were motivated by a desire to pay for his son’s hospital bill, whereas Nuridah’s actions resulted in the loss of a human life.
Conclusion
The punishment handed out to Nuridah has left many questioning the justice system’s priorities. It is imperative that the courts prioritize the value of human life and take a more severe stance against crimes that result in harm or loss of life. The justice system must also consider the motivations behind the crime, as in the case of Engkapi, who stole a handphone to pay for his son’s hospital bill.
FAQs
Q: What was the punishment handed out to Nuridah for causing the death of Kamar Mat Sarin?
A: Nuridah was fined RM2,500 and given the option to serve a two-month jail sentence if she fails to pay the fine.
Q: What was the punishment handed out to Engkapi Keai for stealing a handphone?
A: Engkapi was sentenced to four years and six months in prison and fined RM1,000.
Q: Why was the punishment for Nuridah deemed more lenient than Engkapi’s?
A: The motivations behind the crime and the severity of the crime are not clear.