SEBERANG PRAI (Oct 28, 2009) : The magistrates’ court today ordered police to return the torn trousers and belt worn by Padang Serai MP N. Gobalakrishnan during an incident at the Permatang Pasir by-election nominations centre in August.
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Bukit Mertajam magistrate Mohd Azhar Hamzah gave police two weeks to return the items to Gobalakrishnan.
He said since the prosecution had not made a decision on using the apparel as evidence, the items were to be returned to Gobalakrishnan, who is the accused, according to Section 20 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
Gobalakrishnan was not present in court as he was attending Parliament in Kuala Lumpur.
His counsel J.M. Martin had earlier filed an application to the court to return the items Gobalakrishnan had worn on the day of the incident.
“We believe we have won a small battle by securing the pants and belt as they are going to be important evidence in preparation for our defence,” Martin told reporters outside the court.
In August, Gobalakrishnan claimed trial for allegedly attacking and using violence against a police officer, M. Karunamuthi, in front of the National Youth Skills Institute (IKBN) on Jalan Berapit, Kubang Semang, where by-election nominations were being held on Aug 17.
He is charged under Section 353 of the Penal Code for using criminal force against a public servant.
The hearing continues from March 8 to 10, next year. – The Sun
