Madrasah teacher charged with 13 counts over alleged helmet assault on student

KOTA KINABALU - A madrasah teacher who went viral for allegedly assaulting a student with a helmet at a premises in Telipok has been charged with 13 counts at the magistrate’s court here, police confirmed on Monday.

Kota Kinabalu District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Kasim Muda said the case had been thoroughly investigated before being referred to the prosecution.

"The case arose following the circulation of a video recording on Dec 14 which showed acts of violence against a student.

"Acting on the information, police conducted a detailed investigation and arrested the suspect, who is also the operator or teacher of the madrasah concerned, to assist in the investigation," he said.

Kasim said the investigation papers were submitted to the Attorney General’s Chambers on Dec 17.

"Based on the instructions received, the suspect will be charged in court on Dec 22 (today) under Section 323 of the Penal Code with 13 separate charges related to the offence of causing hurt," he said in a statement.

Kasim said the police take any form of violence seriously, particularly cases involving children.

"Accordingly, firm action will be taken in accordance with the laws in force.

"The public is also advised not to speculate, not to spread unverified information and to respect the legal process and the privacy of all parties involved, particularly the victims," he said.

He added that the Kota Kinabalu District Police Headquarters remains committed to investigating every case in a professional and transparent manner, in line with the law, to safeguard justice and public order.