JUDGMENT & ORDER (CAV)

Heard the learned counsel for the appellant Mr. Lalpianfela as well as Ms.Vanneihsiami learned Addl. P.P. for the State respondent.

2. This is an appeal under section 374 Cr.PC/415 BNSS against the impugned judgment and sentence dated 18.10.2024 by the learned Special Court ND&PS Act Champhai in Crl. Trial No.197/2023 corresponding to Khawzawl PS Case No.19/2023 under section 21(C)/25 of the NDPS Act by which the appellant was convicted and sentenced to undergo RI for 10 years and to pay a fine of Rupees 1,00,000/-(Rupees one lakh), in default to undergo SI for 6 months.

3. The facts leading to the filing of this appeal is that on 26.04.2023, ASI C.Vanlalruata of Khawzawl P.S submitted a suo moto FIR stating that on 26.04.2023 at 12.20 AM a telephonic information was received from Tuisenphai check gate that one vehicle i20 bearing registration No.MZ01E 7744 driven by the present accused/appellant was detained on suspicion of carrying contraband items. Accordingly, he and his party rushed to the spot after submission of information in writing to the Officer-in-charge Khawzawl Police station. On arrival at the P.O they conducted search of the vehicle and recove