THE Tabubil District Court has sentenced a man to six years of hard labor for possessing 4.5 kilograms of marijuana.
Acting North Fly Police Commander, Inspector Anjap Minata, reported that the defendant initially appeared in court, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. The court adjourned the case for sentencing and to allow the prosecution to present submissions on the penalty.
Inspector Minata confirmed that the defendant returned for sentencing on November 6, 2024, before the Tabubil District Court Magistrate, who imposed a six-year prison term with hard labor.
After deducting 25 days of pre-trial custody, the defendant will serve five years, 11 months, and five days at Ningrume Correctional Services in Western Province.
The defendant, Mr Ipark Amlat, 38, of Sanapte village, Oksapmin Local Level Government (LLG) in Teleformin District, West Sepik Province, was arrested and charged under Section 3 (1) (d) of the Dangerous Drug Act for possession of 4.5 kilograms of marijuana.
He was apprehended on Saturday, October 12, 2024, between 1pm and 2pm with marijuana valued at approximately K20,000 to K30,000.
Inspector Minata issued warning to individuals involved in drug trading, urging them to learn from this case and stop their illegal activities.
“It is a fast-money-making business but by doing this illegal business you are only destroying the lives of younger generation of this nation. The public are already tired of few individuals who are involved in these illegal activities and soon the public will front up and man handle you,” Mr Minata said.
Inspector Minata further cautioned those engaged in drug trade within Western Province that the law would ultimately catch up with them, as communities have no place for individuals who choose to pursue illegal activities.
“If you’re caught in possession of marijuana, you will be arrested, charged, and jailed, just as Mr. Amlat was.”
