Mussa John, a 19-year-old teenager who was arrested on 15th June for being in possession of Indian hemp has been sentenced to serve 8 years in prison by Senior Resident Magistrate Court in Limbe.
Prosecuting officer, Inspect Ian Ntaba told the court that Mussa was arrested after police raided his house following a tip that he was in possession of Cannabis Sativa.
“He was later arrested and charged with found in possession of Indian hemp without license, an offence that contravenes Regulation 4(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Regulations, as read with Section 19 (1) of Dangerous Drugs Act,” Ntaba said.
The prosecutor further said Indian hemp contributes to moral decay and criminal activities in the community.
The prosecutor prayed for a stiff punishment in accordance with the sentencing guidelines for offenders convicted of possessing Indian hemp without licence.
On his part, Mussa pleaded guilty and asked for leniency saying he is of young age and takes care of his parents and siblings.
But Senior Resident Magistrate Byson Masonga disregarded his claims and concurred with the state and sentenced him to 8 years imprisonment with hard labour.
The convict hails from Mtandiro village, Tradional Authority Mkagulo in Zomba.
