Lawyer Confirms Two Day Remand For Tawau Emco Protesters

---

 


All seven individuals detained for protesting the extension of the enhanced movement control order (MCO) in Kampung Muhibbahraya, Tawau, Sabah yesterday have been remanded for two days.
Lawyer Raymond Guok, who appeared on behalf of the individuals at a remand hearing this morning, said police had applied for four days remand, but magistrate Nur Asyraf Zolhani granted only two days.
"After considering the submissions from both parties, remand is granted up till April 26," Guok said in a statement.
In opposing the application, Guok said he argued that the group is not a flight risk as they have no means to leave Tawau. Instead, they faced the risk of contracting Covid-19 if kept in detention, and that all of them would face difficulties to fulfil their obligations to fast during Ramadan.
He also confirmed that the seven men are being investigated under three acts - namely, Section 9 (5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act, Act 188 of the Penal Code regarding the obstruction of civil servants and Section 25 of the Emergency Act, which allows for a compound fine of RM10,000.
Of the seven individuals, two have been identified as Sabah collective Borneo Komrad activists, Mukmin Nantang and Mohd Azwan Irwan, while Guok said the remaining five are believed to be their supporters and local villagers.
Earlier today, the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih 2.0) condemned an alleged police assault on Mukmin. The activist said that he had been hit on his shoulder and chest.
On Friday, the government announced Kampung Muhibbah Raya's enhanced MCO extension for another 14 days, from April 25 until May 8.
The activists held a protest at 3pm yesterday, stating that most of the villagers depend on daily wages, and with the enhanced MCO, they cannot fend for themselves, particularly without proper assistance from the government. - Mkini

---