A Kota Bharu ice factory owner was fined RM50,000 for an unlawful water supply connection, causing over RM41,000 in losses to the state water company
KOTA BHARU: An ice factory owner was fined RM50,000 by the Sessions Court here today for an unlawful water supply connection.
Mohamad Yusrid Mohd Yusof, 33, pleaded guilty to making an illegal connection to Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd’s supply.
Judge Nik Habri Muhamad imposed the fine, with one year’s imprisonment in default.
The offence was committed on June 7, 2018, at the Pengkalan Chepa Industrial Area.
He was charged under Section 123(1) of the Water Services Industry Act 2006.
Prosecuting officer Suhaidariah Ahmad from the National Water Services Commission sought an appropriate sentence.
She described the case as serious, causing AKSB to suffer huge losses.
The unlawful connection operated for 17 months, resulting in RM41,337.20 in losses.
It also contributed to an increase in non-revenue water percentage in Kelantan.
“This increase causes AKSB to experience a capital shortage for infrastructure improvements,” she said.
She noted the maintenance of old pipes is particularly affected.
Suhaidariah urged a proportionate fine, citing the accused as a capable person and sole factory owner.
The accused was unrepresented during the proceedings. – Bernama
