Five Years For Selling Dagga

Olefile Serokolo | Monday August 21, 2017 16:35

 

The sentenced also included a fine of P7,000 or an additional 12 months in prison, which will run separately. The court heard that on February 25, 2016 the accused was found in possession of dagga.

In passing judgement Ngebani said he took into consideration that the accused was a first offender, which indicates that she has been a law abiding citizen.

He added that he also took into consideration what the accused said in mitigation. He said the accused was an old woman who was taking care of school going children. He said this makes the court to be merciful when imposing the sentence.

However Ngebani said the crime of dealing and selling of drugs is a serious offence.

Ngebani said it was important for the court to take into account the nature of the crime committed as drugs are on the increase.

 He said it is in the interest of the society to punish offenders for the crimes they have committed.

“The court is alive to the principle that punishment must fit the crime and the criminal.

I also take into account that the law seeks to protect the society against the use of drugs,” Ngebani said.

He advised the accused to appeal to the High Court in 14 days if she was not satisfied with the sentence. Ngebani ordered the sentence to be backdated to August 3, 2017.