The 71-year-old man, Mohamed Salleh Samad, was sentenced to six years and eight months in jail for sexually assaulting a 46-year-old woman under the guise of helping her remove “black magic.” The victim, who suffered from stomach and lower back pain, sought Salleh’s help after an acquaintance recommended him.
During the “ritual,” Salleh deceived the victim and sexually assaulted her multiple times. Deputy Public Prosecutors Joseph Gwee and Grace Teo stated, “Salleh touched her stomach and removed nails from his mouth, claiming they came from her… Later, he sexually assaulted her in the living room and pretended to remove threads and cotton from her body.”
After the assault, the victim confided in a friend and reported the incident to the police. Salleh admitted that he knew the “rituals” would not cure her discomfort and expressed remorse during the trial. Although he pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigation, he was sentenced to jail for his elaborate deception and assault.
The defense highlighted Salleh’s remorse and frailty as mitigating factors but the prosecution sought six to seven years in jail, asserting that Salleh’s deception was elaborate. The judge sentenced Salleh to six years and eight months in jail as he cannot be caned due to his age.
The punishment for sexual assault by penetration is a jail term of up to 20 years, and a fine or caning. This case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of deceiving and assaulting individuals under the guise of traditional or alternative practices.
