Security guard jailed, caned for snatching Russian tourist’s handbag

KOTA KINABALU: A 26-yearold security guard was sentenced to nine years jail plus a stroke of the cane for robbing a Russian tourist.

Sessions Court judge Ainul Shahrin Mohamed imposed the sentence on Muhammad Ali Edi after he admitted to a charge under Section 392 of the Penal Code, which carries a jail term of up to 14 years in jail and also liable to a fine or whipping, upon conviction.

He had robbed Zvyagina Lidia of her handbag near a hotel in Jalan Coastal, Harbour City here at 6pm on July 5.

In mitigation, the accused who was not represented, prayed for a lenient sentence on the grounds that he has two children and siblings to support.

Meanwhile, deputy public prosecutor Rustam Sanip urged for a deterrent sentence.

He said the court should take into account the rampancy of the offence and the victim who is a tourist from abroad.

Based on the facts of the case, the victim was walking with her mother to a mall when a man (accused) suddenly came from the opposite direction and snatched the victim’s handbag.

She tried to protect her bag from being taken away but failed and the accused fled the scene.

The victim cried for help and a man, who is a witness, said he saw accused running towards Sembulan village.

The witness went after the accused who was caught with the help from villagers and public. The accused was handed over to the police.

Later on, the victim identified the accused during an identification parade.