Kovan murder trial: Accused went for pilgrimage in Mecca despite debts

Iskandar Rahmat had gone to Mecca in April 2013 to pursue a pilgrimage, despite being mired in unsecured debts and facing disciplinary proceedings with the police force.

This came to light in court on the second day of the Kovan murder trial on Thursday (21 Oct) when two witnesses took the stand.

Former policeman Iskandar has been accused of murdering Tan Boon Sin, 67, and his son Tan Chee Heong, 42, in Kovan in July 2013.

The two witnesses were Sherman Loh, a long time friend and fishing buddy of the deceased Tan Boon Sin, and Deputy Superintendent Borhan bin Said, who was the disciplinary officer from the police board who conducted disciplinary proceedings against Iskandar Rahmat three months before the murder took place.

On 15 April 2013, Iskandar Rahmat was charged for committing service offence under the Police Force Act, as he had “disobeyed general orders” by having unsecured debts totaling $65,187.54, more than three months of gross salary. Such a debt is not allowed for police officers, and if found guilty, the officer may be dismissed from the force.

Iskandar was charged during a disciplinary proceeding in the discipline board, which functions like the state court.

In the same month, Iskandar went on a pilgrimage to Mecca despite being in debts. On 3 July, DSP Borhan advised Iskandar to get his priorities right by using the money to pay the bank instead of going to Mecca.

Second witness questioned over murder weapon

Loh was a long time friend of the late Tan since the 70s, and went on fishing trips with the deceased.

Loh told the police during investigations that Tan usually used fishing knives between six and eight inches long, and with smooth edges. The knife used in the stabbing had a jagged edge. The murder weapon has not been recovered.

The trial has been adjourned to Monday (26 Oct).

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