Srinagar, May 15 (KNO): In a significant development in the fight against drug trafficking, the Court of Special Judge designated under the NDPS Act, Anantnag has convicted five accused persons in case FIR No. 63/2022 U/S 8/20, 29 NDPS Act, registered at Police Station Kokernag.
The convicted individuals are Mohammad Rafiq Bhat, Anayatullah Bhat, Aijaz Ahmad Bhat, Mubeena Banoo and Sajad Ahmad Ganie, a police spokesman said in a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
“The case is of the year 2022, when Police Station Kokernag, acting on reliable intelligence, registered an FIR against the accused persons who were involved in the illegal trade of narcotics and were attempting to sell charas-like substance to youth. Acting swiftly, police apprehended the accused on the spot and seized 5 kilograms of charas-like substance from their possession,” police said.
“Following a thorough investigation by SI Mohammad Rafiq of Police Station Kokernag, a detailed chargesheet was presented before the Hon’ble Court. During the trial, the Prosecution, represented by SrPO Arif Majeed Romshoo, produced 17 witnesses in support of the case,” police said.
After carefully scrutinizing the evidence and hearing both the prosecution and defense, the Hon’ble Court convicted all five accused on 07/05/2025. Upon hearing arguments on the quantum of punishment and considering both mitigating and aggravating circumstances, the Court sentenced the accused to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1,00,000/- each, the statement added.
SSP Anantnag Amrit Pal Singh, has appreciated the dedicated efforts of the Investigating Officer, SrPO and the entire team of Police Station Kokernag for their professionalism, diligence, and commitment in securing this conviction. This judgment reflects the resolve of J&K Police to combat drug menace and safeguard the youth from the clutches of narcotic abuse, the statement added—(KNO)