By Dorcas Ting
KUCHING, May 14: A 36-year-old man was fined RM5,000, in default five months’ imprisonment, by the Magistrate’s Court here today after pleading guilty to causing a disturbance and behaving aggressively during a Kuala Lumpur–Kuching flight last month.
The accused entered his plea before Magistrate Nursyaheeqa Nazwa Radzali under Regulation 102 of the Civil Aviation Regulations 2016.
The offence, punishable under Regulation 206(2)(a) of the same regulations, carries a maximum fine of RM25,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both upon conviction.
According to the charge, the accused behaved aggressively towards cabin crew members and repeatedly interfered with their duties throughout the flight.
The incident occurred at about 6.25pm on April 22 aboard the Kuala Lumpur–Kuching flight.
It was also understood that the accused was under the influence of alcohol during the incident.
Based on the facts of the case, an aviation security officer stationed at Kuching International Airport was instructed by the airline’s station manager to stand by at Gate 5 after reports of an unruly passenger onboard the aircraft, which was scheduled to arrive at 6.50pm.
Upon landing, the accused was handed over to police for further action.
Investigations later revealed witness statements alleging that the accused punched a fellow passenger, spat on a cabin crew member, and caused a disturbance during the flight.
The court was told that his behaviour raised safety concerns for other passengers and had the potential to jeopardise flight security.
The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Muhammad Afiq Safly Nor Kazly, while the accused was unrepresented. — DayakDaily
