KUCHING: A pub manager was fined RM1,500, in default one month’s imprisonment, for operating his premises beyond the permitted hours set by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS).
Rosmi Abu Talib pleaded guilty to the charge read before Magistrate Nursyaheeqa Nadzwa Radzali.
He was charged under Rule 24 of the Entertainment By-Laws Ordinance 2001, punishable under Rule 28 of the same ordinance.
Upon conviction, the offence carries a fine of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
The offence was committed on Feb 14 at about 2.50 am, when he was found operating the pub located at Jalan Canna beyond the legally permitted hours.
According to the facts of the case, the complainant, a police officer, led a team from the Criminal Investigation Department of the Kuching District Police Headquarters in an ‘Ops Noda Khas Pusat Hiburan’ raid on the premises on Feb 14.
During the inspection, music was still being played, and several patrons were seen inside the premises, which was believed to be operating past the allowed hours.
Rosmi, identified as the premises manager, was arrested and several items were seized during the operation.
Investigations revealed that the premises had been operating beyond the permitted time.
Checks with the local authority confirmed that the premises possessed a valid entertainment licence.
The prosecution was conducted by Deputy Public Prosecutor, Ahmad Fauzulutfi Suriani, while Rosmi was unrepresented.
