AGC to take over case of Malaysian who allegedly breached Woodlands checkpoint

SINGAPORE — A Malaysian driver who was charged yesterday (April 14) with failing to stop his car for immigration clearance at the Woodlands Checkpoint will have his case handed over to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC).

The court heard today that the Immigration and Customs Authority (ICA) is turning over the case to the AGC.

Koh Chin Had, 42, who was driving a Malaysian-registered car, allegedly tried to evade immigration clearance by tailgating a car in front of him at about 12.20pm on Sunday. This took place at an arrival car counter at Woodlands Checkpoint.

According to the ICA, an officer activated the alarm and the Arrival Car Zone was locked down immediately. The car was then trapped in the zone, and officers were able to arrest Koh.

Besides this, Koh faces a second charge of failing to present his passport to authorities.

For failing to stop a vehicle at Woodlands Checkpoint, Koh can be sent to jail for up to six months and fined S$2,000.

The prosecution previously indicated that the second charge of failing to present a passport will be taken into consideration for sentencing.

This is the third reported case this year where a driver was arrested in connection with evading authorities at the checkpoint.

During the short hearing today, Koh’s brother and a friend were seated in the public gallery. They told the media that they intend to bail out the accused.

Bail was set at S$20,000. The case will be heard again on April 22. CHANNEL NEWSASIA