[lrUyiva1]

Published: Friday September 24, 2010 MYT 4:21:00 PM

Couple charged with trafficking an Indonesian maid

GEORGE TOWN: A couple, accused of trafficking an Indonesian maid for the purpose of exploiting her, claimed trial in a Sessions Court here on Friday. S. Poongavanam, 36, and her husband A. Vealu, 41, were charged with committing the offence in a flat in Jelutong between Jan 25 and Sept 13, 2010.

The offence, under Section 13 of the Anti Trafficking-in-Persons Act carries a maximum of 20 years jail and also a fine. Poongavanam was also charged with causing grievous hurt to the maid Win Faidaa, 26, with a hot iron at the same place. The offence under Section 326 carries a maximum of 20 years jail and a fine or whipping. Both cases will be mentioned on Oct 15.