Magistrate Syaffina binti Shahif yesterday sentenced a 54-year-old man to two years and six months’ jail after he pleaded guilty to stealing chocolate bars from a local store, citing his extensive criminal record as a key factor in the sentencing decision.
The court heard that Hamidon bin Haji Mustapa and an accomplice, still at large, committed the theft at a store in Kampong Kiarong on August 11. The theft involved seven chocolate bars, which were taken from the store without payment.
The prosecution revealed that the incident came to light when the store’s sales records did not match its stock inventory.
After reviewing CCTV footage, the store owner discovered Hamidon and his accomplice stealing the items.
A police report was filed, leading to Hamidon’s arrest.
During investigations, Hamidon confessed to taking part in the theft and selling the stolen chocolate bars in Kiulap.
The prosecution further disclosed that Hamidon has a long history of property-related crimes, with convictions dating back to 1986, including a recent offence in 2020.
As a result, the court imposed a higher sentence, emphasising the need for deterrence given his repeated offences.
The accomplice remains at large, and no stolen items have yet been recovered. – Fadley Faisal
