Zubairi Abd Mutalib, a patrol boat machinery chief attached to the marine police base in Kampung Acheh, Sitiawan, was accused of accepting bribes valued at RM7,285 to RM123,390 in cash from seven individuals between May 2016 and July 2019.

He allegedly received the money as an inducement not to take action against several vessels belonging to individuals who were believed to have breached the Fisheries Act 1985.

Zubairi was charged under Section 17 (a) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009.

Each charge carries a penalty of maximum 20 years imprisonment and a fine of at least five times the bribe amount, or RM10,000, whichever is higher, upon conviction.

Zubairi was also charged with alternative charges under Section 165 of the Penal Code that covered a public servant misusing his position for personal gain. A person convicted of this offence can be jailed for two years, fined or both.

The total amount of bribes he is alleged to have received from the 144 charges, including the 43 from yesterday, comes up to RM389,390.

MACC deputy public prosecutor Nurul Wahida Jalaludin prosecuted while Zubairi was represented by Muhamad Aizat Fakri.

The court allowed the accused bail of RM48,000 on all 144 charges, with one surety.

The court set March 31 for remention of the case.