Man jailed and caned after brutal sexual assault on teenager who tried to help
A Sessions Court has imposed a lengthy jail term and corporal punishment on a man who committed sexual crimes against a minor, underscoring the judiciary’s firm stance against violence involving underage victims.
Court Decision and Sentencing
A 51-year-old man, Hazmi Abdul Gaffar, was sentenced to a total of 20 years’ imprisonment and nine strokes of the cane after pleading guilty to charges of rape and sexual assault involving a 17-year-old girl. The sentence was delivered by Sessions Court Judge Zaini Fishir on Thursday.
Charges and Legal Provisions
For the rape charge under Section 376(2)(a) of the Penal Code, Hazmi was sentenced to 12 years’ jail and five strokes of the cane. The offence carries a punishment range of 10 to 30 years’ imprisonment and whipping. He was also sentenced to eight years’ jail and four strokes under Section 377CA for sexual assault using an object.
Concurrent Sentences Ordered
The court ordered the sentences to run concurrently. As a result, Hazmi will serve 12 years in prison and receive a total of nine strokes of the cane, reflecting the seriousness of the offences and the age of the victim.
Background of the Incident
According to the case facts, the incident took place at about 7pm on Dec 22, 2025, along Jalan Kepayan. Earlier that evening, the accused approached the victim while she was crossing a pedestrian bridge and engaged her in conversation.
Sequence of Events
The accused later contacted the victim and requested that she bring him food. The victim agreed and went to meet him. The offences occurred shortly after she arrived at the location.
Report and Arrest
Following the incident, the victim later informed a friend and lodged a police report. This led to the arrest of the accused and subsequent prosecution. Deputy Public Prosecutor Eugenie A. Gilbert represented the prosecution in the case.
The ruling underscores the courts’ firm stance against sexual crimes involving minors and highlights the importance of safeguarding young people. For readers in Indonesia and Singapore, the case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of such offences and the need for continued public awareness and protection of vulnerable individuals.
Sources: NST (2026)
Keywords: Sexual Assault Case, Penal Code, Court Ruling, Minor Protection, Criminal Sentence
