BUTTERWORTH – A 36-year-old laborer admitted guilt in the Sessions Court here today for abducting a five-year-old autistic child and stealing a Honda BRV last week, in a case that has stirred outrage and relief in equal measure.
Jasri Ismail, the accused, confessed to both charges after they were read before Judge Ooi Sheow Yean. The first charge, under Section 363 of the Penal Code, accuses him of kidnapping the boy from his 42-year-old father’s care at a mosque parking lot in Kampung Banggol Pokok Sena, Kepala Batas, around 8:20 p.m. on March 30. If convicted, he faces up to seven years’ jail and a fine.
The second charge, under Section 379A, relates to stealing the father’s Honda BRV at the same time and location. This offense carries a prison term of one to seven years and a fine.
Deputy Prosecutor Nur Fazliyana Ahmad led the prosecution, while Jasri was represented by Anas Hakimi Mat@Ahmad from the National Legal Aid Foundation. The court denied bail and set April 30 for sentencing and case facts.
Earlier reports revealed the suspect was arrested at a Behrang R&R petrol station in Perak, where he was found with the child and stolen vehicle. The boy, who was unharmed, has since been reunited with his family.
Authorities disclosed Jasri has a lengthy criminal past, including 10 drug-related cases and five other offenses. Two of these are active warrants.
The incident left the boy’s father shaken. “I never imagined someone would target my son,” he told local media, voice trembling. “He’s nonverbal and needs constant care—this was every parent’s nightmare.”
Community members expressed relief over the swift resolution but questioned how a repeat offender could strike again. “It’s terrifying,” said a neighbor. “We’re grateful the child is safe, but the system failed to prevent this.”
As the court prepares for sentencing, advocates for children with disabilities urge stricter monitoring of repeat offenders. “Autistic children are especially vulnerable,” said a local NGO worker. “This case must set a precedent.”
The Honda BRV, recovered undamaged, remains in police custody as evidence.
