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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par CRIMINAL JURISDICTION}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272\charrsid804272 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 Criminal Case No. 0002 of 2001}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272\charrsid804272 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 THE STATE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272\charrsid804272 V}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 WONG KAM HONG AND TAK SANG HAO
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Mr. G. Rice, Mr. G. Allan & Ms. S. Shah for the State
\par Mr. M. Raza for the 1st & 2nd Accused.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 SENTENCE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par Almost twenty five }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (25)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  years ago in the only known case in this country involving an importation of about two }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (2) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 kg of }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `heroin\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  namely }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Christina Doreen Skipper v. R}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 . }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (1978) Lautoka Criminal Appeal No. 111 of 1978}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 (unreported) and for which the young female courier was originally sentenced to six }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (6) years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 imprisonment but was later reduced on appeal to five }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (5) years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  being the maximum sentence that a Ma
gistrate Court may impose for any offence, }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Justice Williams }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
who heard the appeal and who described the amount of heroin involved as }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `a very large quantity\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 observed, in his judgment, about }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `traffickers in dangerous drugs especially heroin\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  (and I quote) : 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
`Such persons have no pity for the unfortunate creatures enslaved by addictive drugs but seek to spread those horrors wider and wider.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
In fact by their own callous in-difference to the human suffering they create they reap rich harvests from the misery, degradation, and not too slow death which they smuggle in from other parts of the world.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Decent women are forced into prostitution and ma
les into serving as homosexual prostitutes to apart from other crimes obtain the means of satisfying their ever increasing craving for the drug which before it kills them transforms them into walking skeletons more like animals than humans.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Families of drugs addicts often find that everything they possess has been purloined and sold to buy the drug.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 More and more nations are increasing the penalties for drug trafficking.
\par Of course it is not the court\rquote s duty to extract any form of revenge from these vicious and worst of all criminals.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
If that were the case an appropriate penalty would be to make them into drug addicts under Moses\rquote  law of an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Nevertheless international society demands that they be punished and that the pu
nishment inflicted should if possible be a deterrent to those tempted to work for dangerous drug organisations.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Their profits are so enormous and the vices they control so widespread that one can only hope that under the sanction of punishment potential couriers will hesitate to accept their employment.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
This appellant clearly undertook this assignment with her eyes wide open as to what she was doing and to the risks involved. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 No doubt she was the tool of other persons but she undoubtedly was prepared to run a big risk.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 One of the risks could be being apprehended in Thailand or Singapore where drug traffickers can be executed.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Likewise they know that in any country the term of imprisonment metered out to drug traffickers is likely to be severe........}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 She was perhaps very fortunate not to be arrested before reaching Fiji.\rquote 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 As for the existing maximum sentence of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 8 years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
, his lordship said:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
`The legislature by Act No. 6 of 1978 has amended Section 39(2) of the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance which sets out the penalties with the intention of empowering magistrates to impose up to 8 years imprisonment for drug offences.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
But Act No. 6 of 1978, did not succeed in doing this it simply altered the penalty to one of eight years without extending the magistrate\rquote s powers.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 I understand that the legislature is about to attend to this matter and further enhance the penalties.\rquote 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Unfortunately since then,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
nothing has been done to increase the sentencing powers of the courts in so far as it relates to offences involving morphine or heroin.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
I exclude in particular morphine and heroin because in 1990 the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Dangerous Drugs}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  (Amendment) }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Decree}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  was promulgated.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Amongst other things, the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `Amendment Decree}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 \rquote }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 introduced a schedule of graduated penalties for offences relating to }{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Part II}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  drugs namely, }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `Indian hemp\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  ; }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `Coca leaf\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  ; and }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `raw Opium\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  based on the type of offence committed, the nature of the drug involved }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  the quantity of the drug.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Very briefly, the legislature in the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `Amendment Decree\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 , distinguished between the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `cultivation\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 , }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `possession\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  and }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `trafficking\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  of the drug, with }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `trafficking\rquote  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
being considered the most serious offence }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
`Indian hemp\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  the least }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `dangerous\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 (for want of a better term) drug.
\par 
\par By way of relevant comparison under the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `Amendment Decree\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  an offence of }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `trafficking in Indian hemp\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  where the quantity exceeds }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 100 gm }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (i.e. 0.1 kg) carries a maximum penalty of twenty }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
(20) years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  imprisonment }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `trafficking in prepared opium\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  weighing in excess of a mere }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 10 gm}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  (i.e. 0.01 kg) carries a sentence of life imprisonment !
\par 
\par I accept that the heroin in this case was not intended for local consumption I also accept that the economy and population of this country has, thus far, spared our people from the human toll and suffering experienced in other more affluent count
ries with significant numbers of heroin users but there can be no denying that this country has been used and will continue to be used as a }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `staging-post\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  or an easy transit point for drug traffickers unless our laws and enforcement agencies are considerably enhanced and strengthened.
\par 
\par In this case this Court is dealing with an admitted quantity of well in excess of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 300 kg}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 of heroin with an average purity in excess of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 70% }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
yet the maximum sentence of imprisonment for and offence involving heroin remains at eight }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (8) years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  only.
\par 
\par The quantity of heroin in this case is much much more than }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `a very large quantity\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 In counsel\rquote s words it is }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `enormous\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Indeed it is in the order of a commercial quantity sufficient to support a profitable }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `trade\rquote }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 in heroin for an extended period and involving the movement of small quantities at a time.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 In terms of sheer quantity it is difficult to imagine a worse case than this ever occurring in this country.
\par 
\par On that basis there is much to be said about the urgent need in this country for our legislators to consider the existing penalties for offences involving }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Part V}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  drugs which include }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `morphine\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  and }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `cocaine\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .
\par 
\par Whilst I would not go as far as to say that the existing level of penalties for offences involving heroin is, to adopt }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 State Counsel\rquote s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  words, }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `apt to attract rather than deter\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 traffickers of dangerous drugs nevertheless, consistency alone demands that the existing penalties for offences involving }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `cocaine\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  and }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `heroin\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 be reconsidered with a view to bringing them in line with those that presently apply to offences involving }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `Indian hemp\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  ; }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `coca leaf\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  and }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `raw opium\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .
\par 
\par Having said that is Court is constrained by the maximum penalties provided in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Section 41(2)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  of the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Dangerous Drugs Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (Cap.114)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  which provides for eight }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (8)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  imprisonment and/or a fine of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 $2,000}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  in respect of each of the offences with which both accused have been convicted.
\par 
\par The learned author of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Principles of Sentencing}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  (1970 edn.) in discussing sentencing principles for drug offences wrote (at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 p.163}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 ) : 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
`The principal distinctions made by the Court are between the man who has possession of drugs ...... primarily as a distributor, the person who possess drugs for his own consumption, and the addict.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 The distributor invariably attracts a deterrent sente
nce, whatever the nature of the drug, although sentences are naturally longer in the case of dangerous drugs than those involving amphetamines ; the casual user will normally be treated much less severely, but still on a tariff basis, and the addict will 
be dealt with on an individualised basis wherever possible.\rquote 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Adopting a similar classification in this case both accuseds would be classed as }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `distributors\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  for whom a deterrent sentence would normally be appropriate.
\par 
\par Having carefully considered the admitted facts and defence counsel\rquote s comprehensive submissions in that regard I am satisfied that the 1st accused }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Wong Kam Hong }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 was the principal operative within this country of an importation of an extremely large quantity of heroin that originated from }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Myanmar}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  and was directed and financed from }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Hong Kong}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  where the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 1st accused}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  is normally resident.
\par 
\par As the principal operative in this country the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 1st accused}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 both organised and financed the release and transportation of the two containers from Customs and thereafter the transportation and storage of the cartons containing the heroin by his close friend the 2nd accused in }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 April 2000}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Six }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (6) months}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 later the 1st accused with the active assistance of the 2nd accused personally prepared and packed }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 35 kgs}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  of heroin 
from the cache stored at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 50 Panapasa Road}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 , and transported it to the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Suva Yacht Club}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  with the intention of accompanying it to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Australia}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .
\par 
\par When arrested on the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 28th October 2000}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  the 1st accused had amongst his personal belongings items which might be collec
tively described as an }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 ` international drug trafficker\rquote s kit\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 These include (by the 1st accused\rquote s own admissions), stolen travellers cheques ; a false }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Singapore }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 passport and four }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (4)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  sheets of plastic with the impressions of immigration stamps of various countries imprinted on them to be used }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `when }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (the) }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 need arises\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Additionally on his earlier travels to Fiji in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 April 2000}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  the 1st accused had used a passport issued in the name of a }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `Huang Chin-Kang\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 . 
\par 
\par He apparently also possesses a }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Taiwanese}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  passport as well as one from }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Hong Kong}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .
\par 
\par I have carefully considered everything that has been urged by the counsel on behalf of the 1st accused including his lack of relevant antecedents ;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 his age and family circumstances ; and his belated guilty pleas.
\par 
\par I am satisfied however that the 1st accused knowingly and voluntarily committed the offences with which he has been convicted and given the quantity of heroin involved and his level of involvement in each offence the 1st accused must be considered a }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `distributor\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  for whom a deterrent sentence cannot be avoided.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 The 1st accused is accordingly sentenced as follows : 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 On }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Count 1}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 :}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Importing Heroin}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  I impose a sentence of seven }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (7)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  imprisonment ;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 On }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Count 2}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Being in Possession of Heroin}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  a sentence of five }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (5)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  imprisonment ; and 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 On }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Count 3}{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 :}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Attempting to Export Heroin}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  a sentence of five }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (5) years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 imprisonment.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par The sentences on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Counts 1 & 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  are ordered to be served concurrently but consecutively with the sentence imposed in }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Count 3}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  making a total effective sentence of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (7 + 5) }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 = twelve }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (12) years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  imprisonment.
\par 
\par In this latter regard although I am mindful of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 State Counsel\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  concession that the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 State}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  is not seeking consecutive sentences on the basis that the offences relate to the }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `one shipment\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  of
 heroin into the country, nevertheless, I am firmly of the view that the evidence giving rise to the offence of }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Attempting to Export Heroin}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  charged in the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 3rd count }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
involves a distinct and separate offence arising out of involving the movement on a known date of an identifiable quantity of the heroin entirely unconnected to the original movement and possession charged in }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Counts 1 & 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  and ought properly to be treated differently.
\par 
\par I am fortified in my view by the statement of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Williams J.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  in the }{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Skipper}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  case }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (op.cit)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  where his lordship in imposing consecutive sentences in that case (later upheld by the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Court of Appeal}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 ), said (at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 p.12}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 ) : 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
`Although the appellant in one act imported both kinds of drugs she committed two distinct offences under the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (Dangerous Drugs)}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  Ordinances.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
She could not be charged for a single offence to cover the importation of both the drugs.\rquote 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Likewise in the present case the 1st accused could not be charged with }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Attempting to Export Heroin}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  (Count 3)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  merely because he had imported the heroin into the country.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 In so far as the 2nd accused }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Tak Sang Hao}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 is concerned, by his own description he was the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `caretaker\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 of the heroin cache in Fiji during the entire period that it was stored at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 50 Panapasa Road}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  and willingly and knowingl
y undertook the risks involved.
\par 
\par Even when the 1st accused returned to Fiji in early }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 September 2000}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
 the 2nd accused did not attempt to dispossess himself of the heroin }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 or}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  cease his involvement with the 1st accused.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 On the contrary, he accommodated the 1st accused in his home and accompanied him and actively assisted him at }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 50 Panapasa Road}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  on the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 28th October 2000}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .
\par 
\par I have considered all that has been urged by defence counsel on behalf of the 2nd accused including that he is a first offender, is married with a small family and was a successful business man}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 ; that he pleaded guilty ; and, although originally charged jointly with the 1st accused on the 3rd Count of }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Attempting to Export Heroin}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 , the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Director of Public Prosecutions}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  has since dropped him from the 3rd count in the amended }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Information}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 .
\par 
\par Additionally State Counsel very properly drew the Courts attention to the early disclosures and voluntary assistance that the 2nd accused rendered the police in the recovery of the greater part of the heroin cache from }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 50 Panapasa Road}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 , a house which according to }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
Antecedent Report}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  provided, }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 `was not being targeted\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  by the police officers involved in the joint operation.
\par 
\par Needless to say the early recovery by the police of the larger portion of the illegally imported heroin in this case was almost entirely due to the 2nd accused co-operation and assistance.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 This is undoubtedly a strong mitigating factor not unlike a financial reward to an informer which this Court is empowered to award (}{
\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 see}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  : }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Section 43}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 ).
\par 
\par In all the circumstances and given his co-operation with the police, I am able to extend some leniency towards the 2nd accused and accordingly 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 I impose on the 2nd accused for the offence of }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 Being in Possession of Heorin}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 , a sentence of four }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (4) years}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272  imprisonment.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 (D.V. Fatiaki)
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid804272 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10622076\charrsid804272 At Suva,
\par 8th February, 2002.
\par }}