By Dorcas Ting
KUCHING, May 26: The 23-year-old e-hailing driver accused of killing a woman in Kuching late last year will now face trial in the High Court.
Zakwan Mokhtar, who is facing a murder charge in connection with the death of Nurul Asikin Lan, had his case formally transferred from the Magistrate’s Court to the Kuching High Court today.
The ruling was made by Magistrate Syarifah Fatimah Azura Wan Ali during a routine case mention.
The prosecution, led by Deputy Public Prosecutor Jean Siow Chung Hwei, requested the transfer, citing the seriousness of the charge under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which mandates that such cases be tried at the High Court level.
According to the prosecution, forensic results, including DNA analysis from the deceased’s post-mortem and retrieved WhatsApp communications, have been completed and submitted as evidence.
The victim, 28-year-old Nurul Asikin—also known by the nickname ‘Amoi’—was found dead near a drain in the Jalan Setia Raja area of Tabuan Jaya on the night of December 14, 2024.
Zakwan, who appeared in court without legal representation, acknowledged the proceedings with a nod but was not required to enter a plea.
As murder cases fall outside the jurisdiction of the Magistrate’s Court, the plea will be recorded at a later stage in the High Court.
He remains in custody at Puncak Borneo Prison, as the charge does not allow for bail.
Further court dates are expected to be scheduled following the case transfer. — DayakDaily
