SC pushes evidence-based narcotics trials

In a significant move aimed at strengthening the prosecution of narcotics offences across Pakistan, a three-member Supreme Court bench has expressed serious concern over persistent flaws in the investigation and prosecution of drug-related cases and issued comprehensive guidelines for courts and law enforcement agencies nationwide.

The full bench, comprising Justice Hashim Khan Kakar, Justice Salahuddin Panhwar and Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, took strong exception to recurring investigative shortcomings, procedural lapses and legal deficiencies that have undermined the effective prosecution of narcotics offenders.

The court observed that the existing system frequently results in minor carriers and street-level offenders being prosecuted, while major drug traffickers, wholesale dealers and key figures involved in the production, supply, smuggling and distribution of narcotics often evade the reach of law enforcement agencies.

The observations came during the hearing of an appeal in a narcotics case originating from Jacobabad, Sindh. The appellants had challenged their convictions in a case involving the recovery of 26kg of narcotics from a vehicle. Counsel for the petitioners argued that the prosecution had failed to establish a connection between the recovered narcotics and the driver.

After examining the record, the court set aside the life imprisonment sentences and fines of Rs500,000 each imposed on the accused, ruling that serious defects in the investigation and evidentiary record rendered the convictions unsustainable.