KUALA LUMPUR: Muhammed Yusoff Rawther has been acquitted by the High Court over two charges of distributing cannabis and possessing two imitation firearms.
Justice Muhammad Jamil Hussin, in his decision at the end of the prosecution's case, said the prosecution failed to prove prima facie against the 32-year-old former research assistant to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Based on the testimonies from prosecution witnesses, the judge said the prosecution had failed to prove the accused had control, custody and possession of two imitation pistols and 305g of cannabis.
Justice Muhammad Jamil said that a car in the case belonged to Yusoff and that the keys and remote control of the car were in his possession.
"It is undeniable that he was near the car and he opened the door when the police conducted their operation.
"But that does not mean we can conclude that the accused has exclusive control of the car nor does he have custody and control over the pistols and the drugs," he added.
Justice Jamil also said that the accused's behaviour during the operation was consistent with a person who has no knowledge of the items found in the car.
After he was arrested, Yusoff stated to police that he was "a victim who was framed by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim".
"However, the police did not carry out any investigation to verify this claim. The failure to investigate has denied the rights of the accused for a fair trial.
"Therefore, it is not safe for the court to call the accused to enter defence.
"I hereby make the order to discharge and acquit the accused without calling for his defence," the judge said here on Thursday (June 12).
On Sept 12, 2024, Yusoff was accused of trafficking 305g of cannabis. The drug was found in his vehicle near the surau at the Kuala Lumpur police headquarters at 10.15am on Sept 6, 2024.
He was charged under Section 39B(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries a sentence of life imprisonment and at least 12 strokes of the cane, upon conviction.
Yusoff was also charged with possessing two imitation firearms by the roadside near a condominium on Jalan Bukit Kiara at 9.25am the same day.
The charge was framed under Section 36(1) of the Arms Act 1960, which provides for a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a fine of up to RM5,000, or both, upon conviction.
Yusoff, who wore a striped long-sleeved shirt, was greeted by a large group of supporters outside the court complex after his release.
Speaking to the press, Yusoff said he was grateful for the court's decision and thanked his family, lawyers and Malaysians who supported him.
"My win today is a win for all Malaysians. I will continue to fight for justice as I was persecuted," he said.
Throughout the trial, Yusoff was detained at the Sungai Buloh prison as the offence he was accused of, under Section 41B of the Dangerous Drugs Act, did not allow for bail.
