The Zhemgang dzongkhag court has sentenced nine people, including a woman, to prison terms ranging from 21 months to 15 years for their involvement in the gold scripture smuggling case, which took place in January. The verdict was passed, yesterday. All nine are from Nyakhar village under Nangkhor Gewog in Zhemgang.
The three main accused, Kencho Dorji, Pema Dorji and Leki Dorji have been sentenced to 15 years in prison for robbery of religious antiques which is a first degree felony.
Sonam Kiba and Thinley Phuntsho has been given three years and nine months each prison terms for robbery and deception- a fourth degree felony. Gembo Tenzin and Leki Dorji have been sentenced to one year, nine months and 21 days for deception and misdemeanor also 4th degree felony.
Sonam Peljore and Jigme were sentenced to one year and nine months in prison for misdemeanor.
The court says those with prison terms of less than three years can pay thrimthue, which is compensation in lieu of the prison term.
They have been given ten days for appeal.
The gold scripture was reported missing on 18th January from Nyakhar Lhakhang, but was recovered in Thimphu by Police on the 19th.
