A special NDPS court in Mumbai has sentenced a drug dealer to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for being caught in possession of a substantial quantity of narcotics, specifically 300 grams of mephedrone (MD). The court emphasized the severe impact of drug trafficking on society, noting that those involved contribute to the deaths and harm inflicted upon numerous vulnerable individuals.
Special Judge A V Kharkar underscored the lethal consequences of narcotics trafficking, stating that while murder cases may involve one or two victims, drug dealers are instrumental in causing harm to a larger number of innocent and susceptible young individuals.
“The quantity of contraband seized is very high. Obviously, such a quantity cannot be for self-consumption, and it is for distribution to vulnerable victims,” remarked Judge Kharkar during the sentencing.
The convicted individual, John Joseph, was apprehended in 2021 following a tip-off received by now-dismissed police officer Sunil Mane, who was later arrested in connection with the Antilia bomb scare and Mansukh Hiran murder cases.
Special Public Prosecutor Wajid Shaikh highlighted that the commercial quantity of MD is 50 grams and urged the court not to show leniency towards Joseph due to the significantly higher amount seized from him.
In a detailed 25-page judgment, Judge Kharkar emphasized the trustworthiness and reliability of the prosecution’s evidence. The court found that the accused was apprehended following necessary safeguards under the NDPS Act, with the arresting officer, PI Mane, ensuring the accused was aware of his rights before conducting a lawful search and seizure.
“There is no infirmity or illegality in the procedure of search and seizure and in explaining the rights,” stated the judge, adding that the evidence established the recovery of the contraband from Joseph and its proper custody. The sentencing reflects the court’s commitment to addressing the grave consequences of drug-related offenses in society.