Landmark verdict: 20-yr RI awarded to 2 narco smugglers

Srinagar, Sep 5:In a historic ruling on Tuesday, the Court of Additional Sessions Judge Kupwara delivered a groundbreaking verdict, marking a significant milestone in the relentless fight against narcotics smuggling.
The court sentenced two notorious drug peddlers, Syed Ishfaq Shah and Khursheed Ahmad Gojar, both residents of Jabdi Karnah, to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a ₹2.0 lakh fine on each of them in connection with a narcotics smuggling case.
According to Kupwara police, “The case, stemming from FIR No.56/2019 at Police Station Karnah, shook the locality when 15 kilograms of brown sugar were discovered in the possession of the accused during their confession. The investigation that followed revealed their intention to transport the narcotics consignment from Karnah to Punjab.” police said, It was also established that the contraband had been procured from across the Line of Control (LOC) through Bashir Ahmad, currently residing in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), who happens to be a cousin of Khursheed Ahmed.
Inspector Wasim Ahmad Badoo, who was the SHO of Police Station Karnah at the time, led a meticulous investigation. The legal battle was effectively fought by Assistant Public Prosecutor (APP) Dar Rashid on behalf of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. What made this case truly exceptional was its expedited and fast-tracked proceedings, thanks to the Pairvi cells established under the guidance of the Police Headquarters. These cells ensured the timely presence of witnesses and their testimonies, resulting in a swift and just verdict.
This landmark judgment underscores the unwavering commitment of the criminal justice system to combat narcotics smuggling and uphold the rule of law. It serves as a powerful deterrent to potential smugglers, conveying that the illegal drug trade will not go unpunished. The exemplary teamwork demonstrated by investigative agencies and legal counsel played a pivotal role in bringing these narcotics smugglers to justice.
The verdict has been hailed by law enforcement agencies and the public as a significant step forward in the ongoing battle against drug-related crimes. It sends a strong signal that the courts will not tolerate such activities and that those who engage in them will face severe consequences.