Two jailed over possession of marijuana

TWO men were sentenced to 15 months jail by the Lae District Court on Friday for being in possession of marijuana during New Year.
Police reports stated that the duo were believed to be dealers selling marijuana at different locations during the New Year celebrations when they were caught by police.
Magistrate Tera Dawai sentenced Pius Burumbu, 18, from Gembogl in Chimbu, to six months and Elijah Dagi, from Siassi, Morobe, to nine months. They were charged with being in possession of dangerous drug.
“Everyone knows that having marijuana in your possession is against the law and that marijuana has been the root cause of many social problems and issues in terms of law and order throughout the country.”
Dawai said he was aware of the impact the drug had on communities throughout the country and would not be lenient about the type of punishment to impose on people involved in such activities.
Police reports presented by prosecutor Snr Sgt Albert Sakarias indicated that on Dec 31 at around 7pm, a police unit spotted Dagi at 5-Mile. He was carrying a bag and acting suspiciously when he saw police approaching.
Police officers apprehended Dagi, who tried to flee, and upon searching his bag found 62 small packs of rolled marijuana.