Three Indian nationals have been arrested in Indonesia for allegedly smuggling 106 kg of crystal meth and are facing the death penalty. Their defense revolves around a lack of evidence and crucial testimony from the vessel’s captain, whose absence during trial is a pivotal concern. The trial is ongoing, with a verdict expected on April 15.
Three Indian nationals, Raju Muthukumaran (38), Selvadurai Dinakaran (34), and Govindhasamy Vimalkandhan (45), detained in Indonesia since July 2024, now face the death penalty for allegedly smuggling 106 kilograms of crystal meth aboard the Singapore-flagged vessel Legend Aquarius. They are all originally from Tamil Nadu and had been working in the shipping industry prior to their arrest. The accusations stem from an operation in which Indonesian authorities intercepted their vessel in the Pongkar waters of Karimun district, following a tip-off.
A critical development occurred on March 14 when the captain of the vessel, ordered to give testimony, did not appear in court, presenting a significant challenge for the defense. The captain was only present briefly via Zoom, which impeded any opportunity for cross-examination by the defense team, who emphasized the importance of this testimony in proving their clients’ innocence. Prosecutors have called for the death penalty, the highest punishment under Indonesian law.
The accused are represented by Indian lawyer John Paul of South Asia Lex Legal Services, along with Indonesian firm Bambang Supriadi & Partners, who contend that the charges against them are unfounded. Paul asserted, “We are focused on presenting a robust defence and highlighting the inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.” To bolster their defense, they brought in retired Indonesian Navy officer Soleman B. Ponto, an expert in international maritime law, to testify that under Indonesian law, the captain bears responsibility for all cargo.
The defense maintains that it is improbable for such a large volume of narcotics to be smuggled without the captain’s knowledge. Defense lawyer Yan Apridho stated, “We firmly believe that the actual perpetrators have been set free,” indicating hope that crucial defense evidence and witness accounts will substantiate the innocence of the detained nationals. The trial is ongoing, with a verdict anticipated by April 15.
In summary, three Indian nationals face serious charges in Indonesia related to drug trafficking, with potential consequences including the death penalty. Critical issues have arisen regarding testimony and the prosecution’s evidence, leading to questions about the fairness of the trial. The defense remains optimistic as they work to challenge the allegations and assert their clients’ innocence, with a verdict expected shortly.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com