State proposes jail term for 'King Khan' in meth case

Self-employed businessman Imran Khan, widely known as "King Khan", will be sentenced next Tuesday after being convicted of possessing more than four grams of methamphetamine.

Khan appeared before Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad at the Suva Magistrate Court today, where sentencing submissions were heard.

The State prosecution urged the court to impose a custodial sentence, while the defence sought a suspended sentence.

Khan was convicted of unlawful possession of illicit drugs after he was found with 4.1364 grams of methamphetamine in Suva on February 7, 2023.

State lawyer Bhavna Kantaria told the court that drug-related offences continue to be a major concern in Fiji and require deterrent sentences to discourage offenders and send a strong message to the public.

The prosecution proposed a starting point of two-and-a-half years' imprisonment, arguing that the seriousness of the offence warranted a jail term.

However, defence lawyer Shayal Kant asked the court to show leniency and consider a suspended sentence.

The defence highlighted Khan's role as a father of five, his family responsibilities and ongoing health issues as factors in his favour.

Khan's sentencing has been adjourned to June 30, when the court will decide whether he will serve a prison sentence or receive a suspended sentence.