Jun 3, 2006
Malaysian cops tried to extort from motorist to settle offence he
didn't even commit
ON WEDNESDAY at about 8pm, I was returning to Singapore after a
visit to Jusco City in Johor Baru when I was stopped by two
policemen on motorcycles after turning at a traffic junction.
One of them accused me of beating the red lights at the junction. I
am sure I did not and the lights turned amber just as I was
crossing the junction. I argued with him but he was not interested
in my explanation.
The police corporal told me the fine is RM300 (S$130) but did not
proceed to issue me with a summons. Instead, he just stood there
and adopted a 'wait and see' game.
This was the first time I have been stopped by a policeman in
Malaysia and I have heard many stories of corrupt practices. So I
guessed he must be waiting for me to 'negotiate' with him.
I asked him how we can 'settle this matter'. He told me the fine is
RM300 and how much was I willing to pay him to 'settle' the matter.
I realised then he wanted me to bribe him. I refused and he was
unhappy. He refused to let me go but at the same time, refused to
issue me with a summons.
So we just stood there for 10 minutes and I guess he was seeing how
long I can endure. In the end, I had no choice but to give him RM80
(the amount he asked for).
I would like to know in such a situation, what should I do besides
giving the errant policeman a bribe? If he had really issued me
with a summons, how can I appeal against an offence I did not
commit in the first place?
I have written to both the Royal Malaysian Police and its
Anti-Corruption Unit, but there has been no response so far.
Chua Kheng Yeow
