Recent reports by some media outlets have stated that in the case of State-v- Yin Qing Qing, the accused was sentenced for the unlawful possession of illicit drugs. This is incorrect.

The ODPP wishes to clarify that Yin Qing Qing was, in fact, convicted and sentenced for property suspected of being proceeds of crime after she pleaded guilty. The offence arose from the accused engaging in employment whilst holding a tourist visa. Yin Qing Qing was initially charged with her co-accused for the unlawful possession of illicit drugs however, upon review of the evidence, this charge against Yin Qing Qing was withdrawn due to insufficient evidence.

There is no fixed sentencing tariff for the offence of properties suspected of being proceeds of crime and the Courts typically impose suspended or non-custodial sentence. However, in this case, RM Sufia Hamza imposed a 10 month custodial sentence as a deterrent departing from the usual sentence approach.

Any suggestion that the sentence was related to drug possession is misinformation. The ODPP  will not be appealing this sentence, however, the defence counsel have filed their petition to appeal in the High Court.

The ODPP urges media outlets to report court proceedings accurately and responsibly, and to refrain from disseminating incorrect or misleading information that misrepresents the facts of the case.