A special court dedicated to red sanders cases, presided over by Justice A. Narasimha Murthy, has handed down a significant sentence. On Tuesday, 40-year-old Gaddam Ravi was sentenced to five years of rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹6 lakh for his role in a 2018 red sanders smuggling operation. The case was initially registered under the K.V. Palli police limits in what is now Annamayya district.
Ravi, a resident of Mudiyamvaripalli in Kalakada mandal of Annamayya district, was found guilty of illegally transporting the valuable red sanders wood. The court specified that if Ravi fails to pay the hefty fine, he will face an additional six months of simple imprisonment. Notably, four other individuals who were also accused in the case were acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
Superintendent of Police Dheeraj Kunubilli emphasized the importance of this verdict, stating it should act as a strong warning to anyone involved in forest-related crimes. ‘No one is above the law,’ Kunubilli affirmed, highlighting the authorities’ unwavering commitment to tackling the persistent issue of red sanders smuggling with firm resolve. He also extended his appreciation to Deputy SP M.R. Krishna Mohan, Special Public Prosecutor A. Amaranarayana, and all the dedicated investigation and court liaison officers for their exemplary teamwork and efforts in securing this conviction.