BMW driver alleged to have sped off from Tuas checkpoint faces rash act charge

Police officers with the Singaporean man who drove the 7-series BMW sedan. PHOTO: SHIN MIN

SINGAPORE - A Singaporean businessman who allegedly sped off through Tuas checkpoint after being stopped for checks appeared in court on Friday (June 26).

Mohamed Dawood RM Abdul Sukkur, 47, was charged with committing a rash act to endanger the personal safety of others. No plea was taken.

He allegedly drove a 7-series BMW sedan at Tuas checkpoint on Tuesday (June 23) at 142kmh within a confined security checkpoint area with a speed limit of 15kmh.

The police prosecutor applied for a three-week adjournment as there could be more charges made against him, pending further investigations.

Dawood's lawyer N.M. Marican told the court he will be making representations.

The case was adjourned to July 14 and Dawood's bail has been extended until then.

It was reported that he cleared immigration and proceeded to Customs Red Channel to declare boxes of curry puffs and kueh (local pastries) he brought in from Malaysia.

Checks were conducted on his vehicle and there were some discrepancies in the quantities declared. A spokesman for the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority added: "He was directed to a designated inspection bay for further checks. However, the driver drove off instead."

Under the law, anyone wishing to bring in processed food such as traditional kueh from Malaysia need to apply for a permit with the Agri-food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore.

The maximum punishment for committing a rash act is six months' jail and a $2,500 fine.

elena@sph.com.sg

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