Li Luorong and Chen Junhao face two charges under Sections 3(a) and 4(1) of the Official Secrets Act 1972.

Lawyer Ooi Hong Ming, appearing for two accused, told reporters that the defence had lodged representations with the Attorney-General’s Chambers seeking a reduction of their charges.

In the Section 3(a) charge, the duo are accused of trying to obtain official information for a purpose prejudicial to the safety or interests of the state by taking pictures of restricted areas using a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise drone.

If convicted, Li and Chen will face life imprisonment.

Meanwhile under the Section 4(1) charge, the two men are accused of taking aerial photographs using the same drone for surveying or reconnaissance purposes without authorisation.

If found guilty, they will each face a jail term of between one and 14 years.

The alleged offence is said to have taken place at Mindef, Jalan Padang Tembak on Aug 6.

Sessions court judge Suhaila Haron fixed Jan 7 for the prosecution to inform the court of the outcome of the two men’s representations.

Their trial has been fixed for April next year.

Deputy public prosecutor Nor Aisyah Zanyuin appeared for the prosecution.