Jason Lo acquitted of drug charge

KUALA LUMPUR - The magistrate's court here today acquitted singer Jason Lo from a charge of self administration of amphetamine and methamphetamine, three years ago.

Magistrate Mohamad Fared Abdul Latif made the order after finding that the prosecution had failed to prove a prima facie case against Lo, who was also a former chief executive officer (CEO) of a telecommunications company.

Mohamad Fared said the decision was based on a maximum evaluation of the testimonies of prosecution witnesses, exhibits shown in court, as well as submissions by both parties.

“The accused is acquitted and discharged from the charge without having to enter defence and the (RM2,500) bail will be returned.

"The grounds of judgment will be provided on or before June 30," he said.

After the proceedings, Lo was seen hugging a friend of his who was sitting at the public gallery.

The prosecution was conducted by deputy public prosecutor Nur Diana Mohamad Saad while Lo was represented by lawyer Datuk Hariharan Tara Singh.

His trial began on April 6, 2021 with the prosecution calling a total of seven witnesses to the stand which included the investigating officer, chemist and an officer who conducted the urine screening test.

The prosecution wrapped up its case on May 13.

On Nov 18, 2019, Lo, 47, who was also a radio presenter, was charged with injecting amphetamine and methamphetamine into his body.

The offence was allegedly committed in a toilet at the Narcotics Crime Investigation Division of the Brickfields District Police Headquarters (IPD) at 5.15pm, on Nov 15, 2019.

The charge under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 carries a fine not exceeding RM5,000 or a maximum jail term of two years and mandatory supervision by an officer for a period of two to three years, upon conviction.

When met outside the court, Lo expressed his gratitude over the decision.

“I am grateful to my lawyers and I have always believed in the judiciary in determining the truth,” he said.