In a significant development, the Bombay High Court has granted bail to four individuals implicated in an international drug trafficking operation. The decision came after the court found that the prosecution’s case lacked concrete evidence and was predominantly based on the accused’s disclosure statements.
The case unfolded on December 19, 2023, when the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) conducted a raid at the DHL Express India Private Limited facility in Andheri (East), Mumbai. Authorities intercepted a parcel destined for Australia, which was booked under the name Vikas Bhoir. Inside the parcel, officials discovered approximately 9.87 kg of amphetamine hidden within a specially designed cavity in the shelves of a stainless-steel table.
Further investigations led to the apprehension of three additional suspects: Arif Mohd Kasim Shah, Irfan Shaikh, and Naveenkumar Pingale, with Pingale identified as the supplier of the contraband. According to their statements, the network extended from India to both Australia and the United States, involving significant logistical coordination through courier services and the Porter app.
Special Public Prosecutor Shreeram Shirsat presented evidence of WhatsApp communications among the accused that suggested the coordination of drug procurement and movement. Shirsat argued that the defendants were part of a larger drug syndicate and posed a risk of reoffending and tampering with evidence if released.
However, Justice Milind Jadhav of the Bombay High Court noted that the accused had been detained for over a year without formal charges being framed. Citing their fundamental right to a speedy trial and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, Justice Jadhav granted bail to the four individuals. The court emphasized that there was no concrete evidence of the accused being in conscious possession of the drugs and that the charges of drug trafficking and conspiracy were not prima facie established.
