Anticipatory bail in red sanders smuggling case declined after prima facie customs material and need for custodial interrogation.

Anticipatory bail was denied in a case alleging smuggling of red sanders and related customs offences because the material on record, including statements recorded under Section 108 of the Customs Act, 1962, and evidence linking the petitioner to the smuggling network, showed a strong prima facie case. The Court considered the seriousness and scale of the alleged offence, the petitioner's prior involvement in similar cases, the need for custodial interrogation, and the lack of cooperation with investigators. On those facts, the Court held that anticipatory bail was not warranted.

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Issues: Whether the petitioner was entitled to anticipatory bail in a case involving alleged smuggling of red sanders and connected customs offences.

Analysis: The allegations were supported by statements recorded under Section 108 of the Customs Act, 1962 and by material showing the petitioner's link with the smuggling network. The Court noted the seriousness and magnitude of the offence, the petitioner's prior involvement in similar cases, the need for custodial interrogation, and the absence of cooperation with the investigating agency. On these facts, the Court found a strong prima facie case and held that anticipatory bail was not warranted.

Conclusion: Anticipatory bail was declined.

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