‘Occupy Dataran’ activist charged with obstruction
“Occupy Dataran” aims to reclaim public spaces for the purpose of promoting participatory democracy. — File picKUALA LUMPUR, April 23 — One of two Occupy Dataran activists arrested yesterday has been charged with the obstructing a public officer’s execution of his duty, The Star reported today.
Student Omar Mohd Azmi had been arrested along with fellow activist Fahmi Reza at about 8am yesterday, hours after a royal concert celebrating the Sultan of Kedah’s installation as the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong last night and a week ahead of Bersih 3.0’s planned rally.
After the charge under Section 186 of the Penal Code was read to him at the Magistrates’ Court here, Omar pleaded not guilty.
The offence is punishable by imprisonment of up to two years, a fine of up to RM10,000, or both.
Magistrate Zaki Asyraf Zubir allowed bail at RM1,000 with a single surety, which Omar’s father paid.
Zaki also set May 8 as the next mention date.
The final-year occupational safety and health student was represented by lawyer Syahredzan Johan, while prosecution was conducted by deputy public prosecutor Wong Chai Sia
Yesterday, police had sought to remand Omar for two days to facilitate investigations into the alleged offence, but were ordered by a magistrate to complete their probe and release the student within the day.
Aside from the arrests, City Hall officials also seized tents and other camping equipment used by Occupy Dataran.
Occupy Dataran’s stated aim is to reclaim public spaces for the purpose of promoting participatory democracy.
The campsite was also shared by student activists demanding the elimination of the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loan scheme, but they had suspended all activities and vacated the area to make way for the royal concert.
