Driver faces up to 15 years in prison over crash that killed Maldivian student

A 37-year-old e-hailing driver has pleaded not guilty to three charges in connection with a road accident in Malaysia that killed a 21-year-old Maldivian student and injured another passenger.

According to Malaysian newspaper Malay Mail, Mohamed Shafeeq Ibrahim appeared in court on Thursday, 8 October, and denied all three charges brought against him following the accident on Sunday night.

The accident resulted in the death of Aamina Emily Nazim, 21, while another passenger, Aishath Sara Nazim, 22, sustained injuries.

The charges allege that Shafeeq was driving under the influence of methamphetamine when the accident occurred, causing Emily's death.

He is also accused of driving negligently, resulting in a collision with another vehicle and injuries to Sara.

The accident occurred at approximately 8.40pm Malaysian time on Sunday, 4 October, near the PJS toll plaza along the Damansara–Puchong Expressway (LDP).

Shafeeq faces three charges under Malaysia's Road Transport Act.

The first charge, under Section 44(1)(a), relates to driving under the influence of drugs and causing death. If convicted, he faces a prison sentence of up to 15 years and a fine of between RM50,000 and RM100,000.

The second charge, under Section 44(1A)(a), carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a fine of between RM30,000 and RM50,000.

The third charge, under Section 43(1), relates to careless driving. A conviction could result in imprisonment of up to 12 months and a fine ranging from RM5,000 to RM10,000.

During Thursday's hearing, Deputy Public Prosecutor Alia Anisa Hairus Masnan requested bail of RM10,000 for each charge, with one surety.

However, defence lawyer Rohan Singh sought a reduction in the bail amount, telling the court that his client worked as a Grab driver and earned approximately RM2,000 a month.

The lawyer also informed the court that Shafeeq's wife was a homemaker.

After hearing submissions from both sides, the court granted bail of RM9,000 with one surety.

The court also ordered Shafeeq's driving licence to be suspended pending the conclusion of the case.

The next hearing has been scheduled for 4 November.