Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (SP)

Mangalore, Jan 29: Through a verdict delivered against those accused of involvement with fake note circulation, the second additional sessions court here has sentenced nine persons to rigorous imprisonment and fine. Through the judgment delivered on Thursday January  27, additional sessions judge, R M Shettar, sentenced the accused under Indian Penal Code section 489 (b), to four years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 5,000, and also three years rigorous imprisonment under section 489 (c) apart from a fine of Rs 5000. These imprisonments will have to be undergone concurrently.

Those found guilty in the case are, Shantappa (43) from Baltila in Mani, Bantwal taluk, who reportedly is a sorcerer, Ibrahim (37) from Kaukrady, Mannagundi, Nelyady in Puttur taluk, John Kenneth Mascarenhas alias Kenneth (29) from Nekkilady, Sarfuddin alias Sharfu (30) from Nekkilady, Hanif (28) from Hirebandady, B Ibrahim (39) from Nekkilady, Safari Ibrahim (53) from Puttur, Mohammed Kunhi (55) from Ilantila, Beltangady, and Hakim (26) from Indabettu. Shantappa Moolya and Ibrahim have been identified as the prime accused.

Based on reliable information about the operation of the fake note racket, district crime intelligence bureau assistant sub-inspector of police, Parameshwar and other personnel had raided Dasakody in Bantwal on August 31, 2009, and taken into custody Shantappa Moolya. Later, Ibrahim was arrested. Fake currency notes of Rs 100 deonomination, totally worth Rs 30,000, were confiscated from their possession. The other accused were arrested by Bantwal policemen. The then inspector, Valentine D;Souza had filed charge sheet in the court.

Second additional public prosecutor, C Venkataramana Swamy, appeared in the case on behalf of the government.