![Gossip Lanka News [English]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYm2aFFq-bIW1nWX-RrqnPFoIsVos6_VCVz8BpLt0QJi55GNXHXC2fugeRvL0qUStEuCfs7Sfu6ZiSlhrkldxfGuE_wzy5gitY6rMZ2KSi8VBbGvkgXLks37RwZV-4-HKbWiNLRxB8C_r1e4z3mpxFTMPDJPEADoG8E-bZteWFipeD5KNGbjvCfqEfKw=s300 "Gossip Lanka News [English]")
In a jaw-dropping case straight out of a crime thriller, three individuals—including a woman—were hauled before a Malaysian court over charges of smuggling a Sri Lankan national through Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in July.
The accused: Malaysians G. Santhiya Darshini (27), Janarthanan Appupillai (46), and Sri Lankan national Vtheewaran Palani (48). They all understood the charges read out in Tamil, but no pleas were entered as the High Court now takes over this high-profile case.
The Charges That Could Land Them 15 Years Behind Bars
The trio faces serious allegations under Section 26C of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007, along with Section 34 of the Penal Code. If convicted, they could be staring down a potential 15-year prison sentence, hefty fines, or both.
Fake Passport Drama Adds Fuel to the Fire
The plot thickens with another Sri Lankan, 21-year-old Antany Sujan Antany Ranjan, charged for using a false passport under Section 26E of the same Act. His offense? Trying to sneak through KLIA’s international departure gate with someone else’s identity. He faces 7 to 15 years behind bars and a fine of up to RM500,000.
No Bail, Full Court Transfer
Deputy Public Prosecutors Anisah Pisol and Norhidayah Abdullah Sani were quick to oppose bail for all accused and pushed for the cases to be moved to the Shah Alam High Court — a move the court approved without hesitation.
Malaysia Means Business
Malaysia’s iron-fist approach to immigration violations has never been clearer. With penalties this severe, including the threat of lengthy jail time and eye-watering fines, the government sends a loud and clear message: Illegal smuggling won’t be tolerated.
What’s Next?
The court proceedings will be closely watched by both local and international communities as the accused prepare to defend themselves against these grave accusations. Meanwhile, this case fuels the ongoing buzz about Malaysia’s crackdown on immigration crimes — and just how far authorities will go to keep their borders tight.