Senior Resident Magistrate court in Salima has convicted and sentenced two men to 10 years imprisonment with hard labour for being found with six baskets filled with cannabis in the district.

The court heard through State Prosecutor, Sub Inspector Justice Manolo, who identified the convicts as Collins Misomali and Kapasa Mwenda.

Manolo told the court that the convicts were apprehended on September 18, 2023, at Kaphatenga Roadblock.

Police intercepted an Iveco Truck, registration number MN 937, traveling from Nkhotakota towards Salima Boma.

During a thorough search, officers discovered six baskets filled with cannabis. The accused individuals pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them.

The State requested a severe penalty to deter potential offenders, while Misomali and Mwenda pleaded for leniency, citing family obligations.

Senior Resident Magistrate Felix Kansalira agreed with the State’s submission and sentenced both men to 10 years of imprisonment with hard labour.

Collins Misomali, hails from Chilemba Village, Traditional Authority Mkanda, Mulanje, and Kapasa Mwenda, from Chikanje Village, Traditional Authority Kanyenda, Nkhotakota, will begin their sentence immediately.