KOTA KINABALU: Two men were found guilty at the Sessions Court in Lahad Datu on Thursday (March 23) for possessing venison believed to be from deer hunted at the Tabin wildlife reserve.

However, only Gulmin Salahuddin was sentenced and a warrant of arrest had been issued for the other suspect, Ahmad Akram Mat Nawi, who was released on bail previously.

Sabah Wildlife Department director Augustine Tuuga said the two were arrested on Jan 10 this year in Lahad Datu by the department’s Rapid Response Team with the assistance of the honorary wildlife warden there.

"The case is under Section 41(2) of the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997 (possession of protected animals and animal products).

"Both men were found guilty for possessing one sack of 36 venison pieces. Ahmad Akram was also found guilty for possessing another sack containing 49 venison pieces.

"Judge Herlina Muse sentenced Gulmin with a RM35,000 fine, or 18 months' imprisonment, if failed to pay the fine.

"However, Ahmad Akram, who was released on a RM2,000 bail with two sureties during the last trial, did not turn up for the sentencing on Thursday and the court has issued a warrant of arrest for him," said Tuuga.

The prosecution was conducted by DPP Rustam Sanip.