Imran Zanyuin, 35, said he was shocked because this was the first time he was hearing about the allegations, which were raised by the defence.

The 12th prosecution witness said this during cross-examination by lawyer Nur A’minahtul Mardiah Nor, who represented Siti Bainun.

Siti Bainun, 30, faces two charges of neglecting and abusing Bella, causing the victim to suffer physical and emotional injuries.

She is accused of committing the act at a condominium in Wangsa Maju here between February and June last year under Section 31 (1) (a) of the Children Act 2001, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment or a fine of RM50,000 or both, if convicted.

The trial is being held before sessions court judge Izralizam Sanusi.

The witness also disagreed with the lawyer’s suggestion that the individual who committed the sexual assault was someone called “ustaz” or “pakcik” where Bella had lived before.

Nur A’minahtul: During the investigation at the Children’s Interview Centre (CIC), Bella mentioned about “ustaz”.

Imran: I don’t know.

Nur A’minahtul: Every time Bella sees an individual resembling a “pakcik” or “ustaz”, she will cover her private parts with both hands, do you know about this?

Imran: I don’t know (about that).

Imran also disagreed with the lawyer’s suggestion that the recommendation to give permanent custody to Siti Bainun was due to the alleged sexual abuse.

In previous proceedings, Imran said the children’s magistrates’ court had allowed a temporary custody order to be given to Siti Bainun from July 14 to Sept 20, 2020, while permanent custody began from Sept 24, 2020.

According to him, Bella was previously placed at Taman Sinar Harapan Tuanku Ampuan Najihah in Seremban from 2011 to 2020, before Siti Bainun took the teenager under her care.

The trial continues tomorrow.