Yusoff Rawther Denies Cannabis Trafficking Charges

By Subaashinee Kupusamy,

12 SEPTEMBER: Muhammed Yusoff Rawther, a former research assistant to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, appeared in magistrate’s court today, facing charges of trafficking 305 grams of cannabis. Rawther, 31, strongly asserted his innocence, claiming he is being framed by influential figures.

Charged under Section 39B(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act, Rawther could face life imprisonment and a minimum of 12 strokes of the rotan if convicted. The alleged offense occurred on September 6 at the Kuala Lumpur police contingent headquarters. Rawther, who acknowledged understanding the charges, did not enter a plea as drug cases fall under the High Court’s jurisdiction.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohd Sabri Othman requested a mention date pending analysis of the substances by the Department of Chemistry. The court has scheduled the next hearing for November 12. Rawther’s lawyer, Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali, will address the media later today.

Rawther was reportedly arrested on September 6 after police allegedly discovered two pistols and the cannabis in his vehicle. His lawyer contends that these items were planted by those with personal grudges against Rawther. A seven-day trial is set to begin on June 16 next year as stated in NST.