OPIUM ON A SHIP.

Taranaki Daily News, 30 November 1920, Page 5

OPIUM ON A SHIP.

CHARGE AGAINST A JAPANESE. THE CASE DISMISSED. By TelesTapn.—Press Association Christchureh, Last Night. At the Magistrate's Court at Lyttelton, before Mr. McCarthy, S.M.,'Usui Moiehi, cheif steward of the Japanese steamer Hukushiku Maru, was charged that lie did import fnto New Zealand opium in a form suitable for smoking, contrary to section two of the Opium Act. Tho information was laid by Mr. W. J. Wratt, Collector of Customs, Christchureh. The case for the prosecution was that behind a loose board in a cupboard of accused's cabin was found four tins labelled "Selected Best Fruits," but which in reality contained opium in a form suitable for smoking. For the defence the purser and captain deposed that accused joted tho ship in Japan just prior to the vessel sailing. His predecessor had been suspected of smuggling at Seattle and Portland (Oregon). He was admonished and, along with the ' ship's carpenter, deserted the ship at Shanghai, leaving all their clothing and effects and forfoiting their wages. Accused denied all knowledge of the presence of the opium. Tlie Magistrate held that accused had completely answered tho charge against him and the information was dismissed. A further charge of being in possession of dutiable goods was also dismissed.