MCBA chief Shuhaily charged with assaulting Special Branch duo at KLIA

Malaysian Border Agency chief Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain appeared in court today to face two charges of assault for an incident involving two Special Branch officers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Security was heightened around the Sepang Magistrate's Court as Shuhaily, dressed in a dark suit, arrived for the proceedings.

The 54-year-old border agency chief made a stop at the court cafeteria for breakfast before the hearing, offering press photographers and reporters the opportunity to join him. Another official, Port Klang MCBA commander Datuk Nik Ezanee Mohd Faisal, accompanied Shuhaily to the court complex, displaying solidarity with the accused.

The charges stem from a high-profile altercation at KLIA Terminal 1 on September 28, which was captured on mobile footage and went viral online. The clip showed Shuhaily, believed to be the border agency director-general, berating two men, with one officer seemingly being forcibly grabbed by the ears. Following the viral uproar, Shuhaily publicly acknowledged responsibility and readiness to accept the government's decision on the matter.

The case moved to court after extensive investigation and submission of evidence to the Attorney General's Chambers. The prosecution demanded additional clarification before framing charges, which was granted on October 17. The Special Branch officers, acting as travel control officers at the airport, have denied allegations of involvement in "counter setting" syndicates to bypass immigration controls. If convicted, Shuhaily faces up to one year in prison, a fine of up to RM2,000, or both.