Bus driver claims trial to drug abuse charge

BENTONG: The driver of a double-decker express bus which crashed, resulting in three deaths early Saturday, claimed trial to a charge of drug abuse.

Wan Khairul Affendi Wan Mustapa, 35, pleaded not guilty under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 when he was produced and charged at a magistrate’s court here yesterday.

The offence carries a jail term of up to two years or a fine of up to RM5,000 upon conviction.

Magistrate Mohd Isa Md Nor fixed May 19 for the case to be re-mentioned and granted the accused a bail of RM2,000 in one surety.

Wan Khairul Affendi was represented by Azizzul Shariman Mat Yusoff and Mohd Shukri Ibrahim while Insp Anuar Afindi prosecuted.

His immediate family members who were present at the court posted bail later.

Bentong OCPD Supt Mansor Mohd Nor said police would re-arrest the driver to assist in investigations under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving resulting in death.

During the 12.30am incident at KM11 Jalan Bentong-Raub, the bus skidded while negotiating a corner before crashing into a pole, killing an African and his pregnant Malaysian wife and another passenger.

Ten other passengers including Wan Khairul Affendi were injured.

The bus, carrying 67 passengers, was heading to Kota Baru from Kuala Lumpur.