BANGLADESH NATIONAL SENTENCED FOR POSSESSION OF ILLICIT CIGARETTES

Potchefstroom, North West – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence imposed by the Potchefstroom Magistrates’ Court on a 38-year-old Bangladesh national, Palash Mohosin, for possession of illicit cigarettes.

The conviction and sentence emanate from Mohosin’s arrest on 30 January 2024, after he was found in the Potchefstroom precinct in possession of illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R93,878.

He was immediately arrested by the police and subsequently charged for contravening the provisions of the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964.

State Prosecutor Nontenjwa Cain urged the court to impose a deterrent sentence, highlighting the negative impact of the illegal trade in illicit products on the country’s economy.

The court found Mohosin guilty of contravening Section 80(2) of the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964 and sentenced him to a R20,000 fine or 12 months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for a period of five years, on condition that he is not convicted of contravening Sections 80(1) and 80(2) of the Act during the period of suspension.

The NPA remains committed to working with law enforcement agencies to combat the trade in illicit goods within the borders of the Republic and to ensure that those who deliberately contravene the laws of the country are held accountable.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence, stating that although the sentence may appear minimal, it sends a strong message that the illegal trade in illicit goods will not be tolerated and that those who contravene the law will face legal consequences.

Issued by:

Lindiwe Mabasa

NPA Communication Officer

North West Division