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Supreme Court of India 2022-04-27 dismissed

Ramjhan Gani Palani vs National Investigating Agency and Anr

Bench: 3 — Hima Kohli

In Brief

A fisherman was detained for allegedly acting as the Indian recipient in a transnational heroin smuggling operation. Pakistan-flagged vessel "Al Madina" was intercepted with 236.622 kg of heroin; the captain had communicated via VHF radio using coded signals "Mohammed" and "Ramzan". The petitioner, aboard a nearby fishing boat, responded to these signals. Despite claiming to be legitimate fishing, the boat had minimal catch over five days and crew appeared suspiciously clean. The Special Judge and High Court rejected bail. The Supreme Court dismissed the SLP, noting serious charges under NDPS Act (minimum 10 years), ongoing investigation with nine absconding Pakistani nationals, and sufficient prima facie material to warrant detention without interference.

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Criminal Procedure Bail Drug Trafficking National Security Narcotic Drugs Unlawful Activities Maritime Smuggling

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