Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: A 49-year-old Mumbai resident arrested in connection with an alleged ganja possession case has secured bail from the Mapusa court, subject to conditions restricting his movement and requiring cooperation with the police investigation.
Danny Frank Braganza, a resident of Andheri East, was arrested by Saligao Police on October 28 during an anti-narcotics operation at Marra in Pilerne. Police had alleged that he was carrying ganja and registered a case against him under the NDPS Act.
During the bail proceedings, defence counsel Advocate Salil Lawande maintained that the quantity seized was within the legally defined small-quantity limit of one kilogram. He argued that with the seizure completed and the evidence already in police custody, keeping his client behind bars was no longer necessary.
The prosecution, however, raised objections, pointing to Braganza’s residence outside Goa and expressing apprehension that he could evade the investigation, influence witnesses or interfere with efforts to identify the source of the suspected drugs.
After considering the submissions, the court observed that the restrictive bail provisions under Section 37 of the NDPS Act were not attracted in a small-quantity case. It also took into account that Braganza was in judicial custody and was not required for further custodial questioning.
The court subsequently allowed the bail application, holding that the concerns raised by the prosecution could be addressed through appropriate safeguards.
As per the bail order, Braganza must execute a personal bond of ₹15,000 and furnish one local surety for an equivalent amount. He has also been directed to attend Saligao Police Station for six consecutive days, assist the investigating team and obtain court permission before travelling outside Goa or India.
