Thrissur: In the case of smuggling 85 kg of ganja, the 4th Additional Sessions Court of Thrissur has delivered its verdict. The accused individuals, namely Mohammad Harris (25) from Karipa Putthanveet, Ashik (23) from Ashik Bhavan, and Rahul (27) from Pattil Uyal, who are natives of Kollam, were found guilty by the court. The smuggling operation took place in an Innova car through Kolathur National Highway within the jurisdiction of Thrissur Rural Kodakara Police Station.
Presiding over the case, Judge Mr. K. V. Rajneesh pronounced the sentence, imposing a punishment of ten years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs.1,00,000/- on each of the convicted individuals. The verdict was a result of their involvement in the transportation and illegal possession of 85 kg of ganja.
The arrest of Mohammad Haris, Ashiq, and Rahul occurred on June 28, 2021, following a tip-off received by Sub-Inspector Mr. Jason J of Kodakara Police Station. Acting swiftly on the information, the police apprehended the accused individuals at Kolathur. During the arrest, a thorough search of the Innova car led to the discovery of the contraband. The ganja was concealed in two trolley bags located on the back seat of the vehicle, as well as two sacks bundled in the trunk.
The investigation into the case was carried out by Inspector Mr. Basil Thomas, who diligently collected evidence and gathered information. Subsequently, Inspector Mr. Jayesh Balan took over the investigation and compiled all the necessary details, ultimately submitting the charge sheet to the Hon’ble Court.
Throughout the legal proceedings, the prosecution called upon 21 witnesses to testify, presenting their statements to support the case against the accused individuals. Among the crucial witnesses was Mrs. Shanthakumari R, the Tehsildar of Chalakudy, who witnessed the inspection of the seized ganja. Her testimony played a significant role in establishing the veracity of the prosecution’s claims.
Representing the prosecution in court were Public Prosecutor P. Dini Laxmanan, along with advocates KS Dheeraj, MR Srilakshmi, and EB Arsha, who provided legal counsel and assistance throughout the trial.
This comprehensive legal process resulted in the conviction of Mohammad Harris, Ashik, and Rahul, highlighting the severity of their crime and serving as a deterrent to others involved in illicit drug trafficking.
