Teen charged for theft of bus

A teen boy suspected of stealing a bus and taking it for a joyride has been charged in court yesterday.

The incident took place at about noon on Sunday, when 16-year old Muhammad Salahuddin Omar took a 45-seater bus on a joyride around Singapore. The accused, who is deaf, was also charged for driving under the legal age of 18 and without insurance. He was arrested on the day of the incident.

The Straits Times reported that Salahuddin indicated through a sign language interpreter that he will plead guilty to the three charges.

The prosecution told the court that more charges may be brought against him.

The maximum penalty for vehicle theft is seven years' jail, a fine and driving ban. For driving under the legal age or driving without insurance, Salahuddin can also be fined up to $1,000 or face a jail term of up to three months.