KUCHING – A man was brought before the Serian Magistrate’s Court today to face a charge of obstructing health enforcement officers while they were carrying out their duties at a food outlet in Balai Ringin last week.
The accused was alleged to have deliberately hindered a Serian Health Department officer who was taking enforcement action against him for smoking inside the premises at about 9.50am on Sept 27.
According to the charge, the suspect refused to cooperate, acted provocatively, and hurled abusive words at the enforcement officer during the incident.
Police confirmed that the unemployed man was arrested at about 4.50pm the same day by officers from the Serian District Criminal Investigation Department following a police report lodged against him.
The charge was framed under Section 186 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum jail term of two years, a fine of up to RM10,000, or both, if convicted.
No plea was recorded when the case was mentioned before Magistrate Stella Eve Bliten. The court did not offer bail, and the accused has been remanded at Puncak Borneo Prison in Kuching until the case is set for further mention on Oct 8 at the Serian Magistrate’s Court.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of the authorities to enforce smoking bans at eateries under public health regulations. Such actions aim to ensure compliance and protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke exposure, especially in food premises.
The Serian Health Department has reminded the public to respect enforcement officers and adhere to the rules, warning that any form of obstruction against government officers in the line of duty will not be taken lightly.