Mumbai, February 5, 2025 – A 62-year-old Mahim resident, Ahmad Husain Shaikh, has been sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for possessing 115 grams of Mephedrone (MD), a narcotic substance worth Rs.17.25 lakh. The conviction follows Shaikh’s arrest by the Worli unit of Mumbai Police’s Anti-Narcotics Cell in April 2022.
Arrest and Discovery of Mephedrone
On the evening of April 13, 2022, a police patrol team observed Shaikh acting suspiciously on Mori Road, Mahim West, around 8:40 pm. Upon further inspection, the authorities found him carrying a white nylon bag containing a transparent plastic pouch. Inside the pouch, 115 grams of Mephedrone were discovered. Shaikh reportedly admitted to the police that the drug was intended for distribution to clients in Mumbai.
The authorities immediately seized the contraband, which had a market value of Rs.17.25 lakh. The case was pursued by the Worli Anti-Narcotics unit, who initiated a thorough investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Court’s Verdict
In court, the prosecution presented several key testimonies from police officers, panch witnesses, and documentary evidence. Special Public Prosecutor SS Panjwani demonstrated that Shaikh had consciously possessed the illegal drug, which was classified as a psychotropic substance. Additionally, police inspector testimony revealed that Shaikh attempted to flee upon spotting the officers before his arrest.
Shaikh’s defense lawyer denied the allegations, claiming that his client was falsely implicated and that the police did not adhere to proper procedures under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. However, after reviewing the evidence, the court found the prosecution’s case compelling.
Special Sessions Judge SE Bangar noted that the accused was found in conscious possession of the drug and confirmed that all legal safeguards had been observed. The chain of custody for the evidence was maintained, ensuring the integrity of the investigation.
Judge Bangar ruled that Shaikh was guilty under Section 8(c) of the NDPS Act, punishable under Section 22(c), emphasizing the seriousness of possessing MD in a commercial quantity.
Sentence and Court’s Reasoning
Despite the defense’s request for a lighter sentence due to Shaikh’s age and his prior imprisonment, the court held firm in its ruling. The defense argued that Shaikh had already served four years in prison, but the court deemed that the severity of the crime warranted no leniency.
The court took into account the increasing incidents of narcotic drug trafficking and illicit activities surrounding psychotropic substances. “No leniency in sentencing is warranted,” said the court. Shaikh was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to pay a fine of Rs.1 lakh.
Impact of the Judgment
This case highlights the ongoing battle against narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in Mumbai. Despite the growing efforts by law enforcement agencies, illegal drug trafficking continues to plague the city. The court’s firm stance on sentencing aims to deter future offenses and send a strong message about the consequences of engaging in illegal drug activities.
As Mumbai grapples with the challenges of narcotics abuse, this case serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies will not tolerate drug-related crimes, and strict legal actions will continue to be pursued.
