Kasungu man fined K150, 000 for being found with Indian hemp
Kasungu First Grade Magistrate Court has fined Patrick Phiri, 47, MK150, 000 or in default serve a 12 months jail term for being found guilty of possessing Indian hemp.
Phiri was arrested on 23rd May at Chisazima Roadblock where he was found with three bags of Indian hemp which he had mixed with charcoal.
During court hearing on Wednesday, Prosecutor Sergeant Thokozani Juziwell requested the State to give Phiri a stiff sentence in order to deter would be offenders.
“If such cases are to be reduced, perpetrators like Phiri should be given stiff sentences,” said Juziwell.
In mitigation, Phiri who pleaded guilty to the charge asked the court for leniency claiming it was the first time for him to be in conflict with the law.
Concurring with Juziwell, Kasungu First Grade Magistrate, Damiano Banda said; “If dangerous drugs like Indian hemp are not guarded, it would be a threat to the society especially young people.”
Banda, therefore ordered Patrick Phiri to pay a fine of MK150, 000 or in default go to prison for 12 months with hard labour.
Phiri hails from Sauya Village, Traditional Authority Nankumba in Mangochi district.
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