Hisar Court Hands Down 10-Year Sentences to Opium Smugglers
The court of additional district and sessions judge Hemant Yadav in Fatehabad delivered a strong verdict against two opium smugglers. The court convicted both individuals and sentenced them to ten years of rigorous imprisonment each. This decision underscores the judiciary's firm stance on narcotics offenses.
Heavy Fines Imposed on Convicts
In addition to the prison terms, the court imposed a substantial financial penalty. Each convict must pay a fine of Rs 1 lakh. Failure to pay this amount could lead to further legal consequences, extending their hardship.
The convicted men are Dharampal and Sonu. Both hail from Kaliran village in Hisar district. Their identities were confirmed during the court proceedings, linking them directly to the crime.
Two Accused Declared Proclaimed Offenders
The case involved two other accused individuals who did not appear in court. Rambir, a resident of Kirori village in Hisar, and Nanharam from Rajasthan were both released on bail earlier. They failed to attend subsequent hearings, prompting the court to take action.
Judge Hemant Yadav declared Rambir and Nanharam proclaimed offenders. This legal status means they are now fugitives from justice, subject to arrest if found.
Police Interception Leads to Arrests
District attorney Devendra Mittal provided details about the case. On March 23, 2017, a special staff police team was patrolling from Ratia towards Buan village. The officers noticed three youths standing with two motorcycles near a tubewell.
This location was close to a liquor vend on the outskirts of Basti village. Upon spotting the police, the suspects attempted to flee immediately. A brief chase ensued, resulting in their apprehension.
Recovery of Opium and FIR Registration
During interrogation, the accused identified themselves as Dharampal, Sonu, and Rambir. Dharampal and Sonu are residents of Kalirawan village under Agroha police station in Hisar district. Rambir comes from Kirori village.
A thorough search led to a significant discovery. Police recovered 2 kg 600 g of opium from their possession. This substantial quantity indicated serious involvement in drug trafficking.
Following the recovery, authorities registered an FIR against the accused. The case was filed under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This law prescribes strict penalties for such offenses.
Conspiracy and Procurement Details Revealed
According to the prosecution, accused Rambir disclosed key information during interrogation. He admitted that he, along with Dharampal and Sonu, conspired to earn quick money through opium trafficking. The trio pooled their financial resources to fund this illegal venture.
On March 15, 2017, they purchased 2.6 kg of opium from a farm settlement. This location was about 25 km from Jodhpur in Rajasthan. The transaction highlighted cross-border elements in the crime.
Transportation and Further Arrests
The accused were transporting the consignment for sale when police intercepted them near Basti village. This timely action prevented the opium from reaching the market, potentially harming many lives.
Rambir further revealed that the opium was procured from Nanharam, a resident of the Jodhpur region. Based on this information, authorities later arrested Nanharam in connection with the case. His involvement added another layer to the smuggling network.
The court's ruling sends a clear message against drug trafficking in the region. It reflects concerted efforts by law enforcement and the judiciary to combat narcotics trade. Such cases often involve complex investigations and inter-state coordination.
