Alor Setar: A pasar malam trader who specializes in selling children's toys received a 30-month jail sentence and a RM1,500 fine after pleading guilty to breaking into the home of former Kedah Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah. The decision was handed down by the Magistrate's Court.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Magistrate Nur Syifa Mohd Hamzah also decreed that T. Rakesh Kumar, aged 44, would face an additional six months in jail if he failed to pay the fine. The incident took place at Taman Rakyat at 2.50 am on May 29, where Kumar was accused of housebreaking and stealing a grass-cutting machine from the residence of the former state leader.

The charge fell under Section 457 of the Penal Code, which allows for a maximum punishment of 14 years in prison, alongside a fine or whipping. Despite the serious nature of the charge, the accused sought leniency by highlighting his personal circumstances.

Represented by National Legal Aid Foundation counsel Aina Shafina Idrus Saidi, Kumar appealed for a lighter sentence. She argued that Kumar is married, lacks a stable income, and has familial responsibilities, including supporting his wife and parents. Nevertheless, Deputy Public Prosecutor Nur Sharmila Md Asri advocated for a fitting punishment, noting that this was a repeat offense, and Kumar had prior convictions for similar crimes.