Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 14:
As directed by the outfit, a non-Manipuri who works as a sub-agent in supplying tobacco products to the shops in different parts of the State gave in to the proscribed RPF/PLA in connection with its ban on selling and consumption of the tobacco products.
The accused sub-agent identified as Panna Lal Saha (41) of Buxar district, Bihar, but presently staying at Masjid Road, Imphal was paraded before mediapersons somewhere in Thoubal district today.
Panna Lal reportedly surrendered to the outfit along with a large quantity of tobacco products like Zarda, Khaini and Talab.
Talking to mediapersons at the occasion, a spokesperson of the department of communication and publicity of RPF recounted that during a special drive launched in Sega Road Thouda Bhabok Leikai and Irom Chanam Pukhri Mapal area on March 11 and 12, three shop keepers who were selling tobacco products in defiance of the ban were pulled up.
During the course of interrogation, it was learnt that the tobacco products were supplied to them by Panna Lal.
Subsequently, he was asked to surrender to the outfit within five days and he did so today.
The spokesperson further informed that since Panna Lal has admitted to his crimes and this being his first offence, he would be handed over to his family members safely after proper advice against indulging in such businesses in the future.
However, he would not be allowed to open his shop for five months.
In case, he defies the diktat, then he would be awarded capital punishment without giving any warning, the spokesperson warned.
Panna Lal admitted to the charges and pledged to accept any punishment given by the outfit in the event of his indulgences in selling tobacco products again.
Later on, a bonfire of the tobacco products reportedly surrendered by Panna Lal was made in front of the media-persons and the public.