Pune: Drug Smuggling Mastermind Lalit Patil Remanded To Seven Days Police Custody
Pune, 1st November 2023: Lalit Anil Patil, accused mastermind of a major drug mephedrone smuggling racket, were remanded to seven days police custody by Judicial Magistrate (First Class) AC Birajdar. The trio, arrested by Pune police after being detained in Mumbai, faced heavy police security during their court appearance on Wednesday.
Lalit Patil, the primary accused, claimed that his life was under threat from the police. He asserted suffering from hernia and tuberculosis, urging the court to ensure precautions for his health and safety. However, the court ruled against providing separate security while in police custody.
The drug trafficking case involves a total of 14 identified accused, with 11 already arrested, all connected to Lalit Patil. The accused allegedly operated a drug factory in Nashik and smuggled drugs in Pune. Seizures from their possession include mephedrone worth Rs 2 crore 14 lakh, three kg gold worth Rs 1 crore 80 lakh, and two cars.
ACP Amol Tambe emphasized the seriousness of the crime, affecting the young generation, and urged a thorough investigation. Public prosecutor Neelam Yadav-Ithape argued for 14 days police custody to uncover the extent of the accused’s property obtained through smuggling.
Advocate Sandeep Bali, representing Lalit Patil, claimed threats to his client’s life and demanded the court take responsibility for his health due to existing medical conditions. Other defence lawyers for Shinde and Chaudhary also opposed police custody.
ACP Tambe clarified no reports of threats to Lalit’s life had been received. The court, after considering arguments, ordered seven days of police custody for all three accused.
Lalit Patil’s lawyer Bali expressed difficulty in meeting the accused in police custody and requested permission. JMFC Birajdar clarified that meetings could take place with the permission of the investigating officer.
