IPOH: Seven youths have been charged at a Magistrate’s Court here for hurling profanities at football supporters and obstructing the police from carrying out their duties.
The incidents allegedly took place during the Super League match between Perak FC and Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) last week.
Muhammad Ikhwan Muizzuddin Vira, 25, Muhammad Danish Hayqal Md Hanapi, 21, Muhammad Syawal Aiman, 20, and Mohammad Khairul Aizam Mohd Rizan, 26, claimed trial to both the offences in court on Friday (Aug 23).
Mohamad Zulhisyam Ramdan, 20, Muhammad Sufian Zamri, 32, and Muhammad Hasif Md Rahim, 28, pleaded guilty to the charge of using profanities but pleaded not guilty to the second charge of obstructing public officials.
The seven entered their respective pleas before Magistrate S. Punitha.
Under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955, they are charged with insulting behaviour by using profanities and making rude gestures towards Johor football supporters at Stadium Indera Mulia at 10.45pm on Aug 17.
For the second charge under Section 186 of the Penal Code, the seven allegedly refused to cooperate when police personnel conducted checks at the same time and place.
The four who claimed trial to the first charge were each allowed bail of RM100 with one surety, while the three who pleaded guilty were fined RM100 each in default a day's jail.
For the second charge, Punitha fixed bail of RM1,500 with one surety for each of the accused.
DPP Nurul Hidayu Zakaria proposed a higher bail amount and fine as a deterrent.
However, lawyer Ng Yun Khong from the National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK), representing the seven, asked for a lower bail amount and fine.
Punitha then set Oct 10 for case mention.
Last week, Ipoh police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said in a statement that the Malaysian Football League (MFL) had to postpone the match between Perak FC and JDT, originally set for 9pm on Aug 17, due to poor weather and pitch conditions.
However, tensions among the supporters led to provocations that prompted police action and the arrest of several people.
