The High Court in Lautoka has authorized the destruction of $2 billion worth of methamphetamine that was seized in December of last year. The decision came after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Police, determined that preserving the drugs was unnecessary for court proceedings. They further stated that safely storing the seized drugs until the case’s conclusion was not feasible.
Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge ruled that a police officer of at least the rank of Assistant Superintendent, as designated by the Commissioner, is authorized to dispose of the drugs through incineration or another secure method. Prior to destruction, a two-week notice must be provided to the court and all involved parties, detailing the date, location, and method of disposal.
To maintain transparency, the legal representatives of the respondents may observe the incineration, and the event will be documented through photographs and potentially video recordings. The judicial oversight will also involve the Resident Magistrate from the area, ensuring that the destruction process is supervised.
The officer responsible for the disposal must prepare a report, alongside two witnesses, confirming that the drugs were destroyed following the court’s order. This report must be submitted to the court no later than two weeks after the destruction.
This ruling signifies a significant step in efforts to combat drug trafficking and ensure that illicit substances do not remain a threat to public safety while also placing a strong emphasis on transparency and judicial oversight in the process. It’s a positive development in the fight against drug-related crime, showcasing the legal system’s commitment to upholding justice while effectively managing controlled substances.
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