Unemployed Man Faces Court Again for Threatening Cameraman
Criminal Intimidation Charge Follows Mischief and Dangerous Driving Conviction
In Johor Bahru, a 50-year-old man, Muhammad Firdaus Abdullah, has found himself back in court. The man was fined for menacing a press cameraman after earlier being penalized for dangerous driving and causing mischief. This follows an ongoing legal battle highlighting the protection of media professionals.
The Incident
Muhammad Firdaus Abdullah, unemployed, was fined RM3,000 in court today for criminal intimidation. The court has stipulated a four-month jail term in lieu of payment. The charges originated after an incident involving a 61-year-old cameraman at the Johor Bahru court complex.
The man was escorted by traffic police at the time of the offense. The charge related to criminal intimidation against a journalist, as the accused was already facing separate charges. The legal framework for this offense, as outlined in Section 506 of the Penal Code, carries a potential jail sentence of up to two years.
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“This is to ensure that the safety and freedom of the media continues to be protected in line with their role in conveying information to the public,”
—Assistant Commissioner Raub Selamat, Johor Baru South Police Chief
Recent data from the Committee to Protect Journalists indicates that the prosecution of those who threaten journalists is rising, indicating a global trend towards greater protection for the press (CPJ 2024).
Court Proceedings
In court, the accused pleaded guilty when the charge was read. Deputy Public Prosecutor, R. Nevina, sought a proportionate sentence. Muhammad Firdaus, who was unrepresented, sought a reduced sentence citing his unemployment and family obligations.
Yesterday, personnel from various media outlets filed police reports. The reports came after the accused made threats while the press was covering his case. The police arrested the suspect earlier in the Bandar Baru Uda area.
Authorities have affirmed their commitment to the safety of the media. The police will not tolerate any intimidation toward journalists performing their duties. This case shows the critical need for ensuring the press can report without fear of reprisal.