Jasri Ismail was charged with kidnapping the boy from his 42-year-old father’s care at the parking lot of Masjid Kampung Banggol Pokok Sena in Kepala Batas at about 8.20pm on March 30.

The charge, framed under Section 363 of the Penal Code, provides for up to seven years in jail and a fine, upon conviction.

He was also charged with stealing a car belonging to the victim’s father at the same time and place, Berita Harian reported.

Framed under Section 378 of the same law, the offence is punishable by up to seven years in prison, a fine or both, if found guilty, for first offenders. For subsequent offences, those found guilty face jail time and a fine or whipping.

Deputy public prosecutor Nur Fazliyana Ahmad prosecuted, while Anas Hakimi Mat@Ahmad from the national legal aid foundation represented Jasri.

Judge Ooi Sheow Yean fixed April 30 for sentencing and did not allow bail.