Kohima: A special NIA court in New Delhi sentenced Thai national Willy Naruenartwanich to six years in prison on Thursday. The judge also slapped the arms smuggler with a Rs 5 lakh fine. Known also as Wuthikorn Naruenartwanich or Willy, he faced charges for his role in a global plot to arm the NSCN (IM).
The Special Exclusive Court-03 at Rouse Avenue District Courts delivered the verdict. The court convicted Naruenartwanich on September 24 under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The case dates back to January 13, 2010, after the Ministry of Home Affairs ordered an investigation.
Authorities identified the businessman as a key middleman based in Bangkok. He coordinated with NSCN (IM) chief arms procurer Anthony Shimray to secure a massive weapons shipment from a Chinese manufacturer. The agency noted the deal was intended to "strengthen the outfit’s armed cadres and facilitate terrorist activities, besides constituting preparatory acts for waging war against the Government of India." Investigators valued the illicit transhipment arrangement at roughly US$1.2 million.
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