The Narcotics Control Bureau’s Kolkata Zonal Unit secured a conviction this week in a drug trafficking case, marking a significant success in its ongoing crackdown against narcotics trade.
The court of the Additional Sessions Judge, 6th Court, Barasat, North 24 Parganas, on Thursday sentenced the accused, identified as David Blessings, to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of ₹1,00,000 under Section 22 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. In default of payment, the convict will serve an additional five months in prison.
Blessings was also sentenced to two years of rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹10,000 under Section 21 of the Act, with a default sentence of one month.
According to NCB officials, the case dates back to a seizure at the Kolkata airport, where investigators intercepted Blessings, who had arrived on a flight from Mumbai. Acting on specific intelligence, officers searched her backpack and recovered 20 LSD blots and 12 grams of cocaine.
The Kolkata Zonal Unit carried out the investigation, which culminated in Thursday’s judgment. Officials said the case was prosecuted under the guidance of the Special Public Prosecutor, and the court’s decision underscores the agency’s determination to pursue drug offenders through to conviction.
“This conviction serves as a deterrent to traffickers and syndicates involved in the illicit drug trade,” an NCB spokesperson said. “It sends a strong message that the Bureau remains committed to its mission of curbing drug abuse and protecting society from the harmful effects of narcotics.”
The agency added that the conviction reflects the broader goal of achieving a “Drug-Free India.” It commended the efforts of its investigation team and the prosecution for securing the verdict.
The NCB also urged citizens to assist in the fight against drug trafficking by sharing information through MANAS, the National Narcotics Helpline, at toll-free number 1933. Officials assured that the identity of informants is kept confidential.
