DrugBust – Major Airport Crackdown Uncovers ₹64 Crore Cannabis Smuggling Racket
DrugBust – A major anti-smuggling operation at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has led to the arrest of four individuals, including a foreign national, for allegedly attempting to bring a large quantity of banned hydroponic cannabis into India. Officials from the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) confirmed that over 64 kilograms of the substance, valued at more than ₹64 crore in the international market, was seized during the operation.
Operation triggered by intelligence inputs
Authorities said the action followed specific intelligence regarding a significant drug consignment expected to arrive from Bangkok. Based on this information, surveillance was stepped up for incoming passengers on selected international flights.
During the operation, officers identified four suspects—three Indian nationals and one foreign citizen—and stopped them for questioning shortly after their arrival. Their behavior and travel patterns reportedly raised suspicion, prompting a detailed inspection.
Large quantity of contraband recovered
A thorough examination of the passengers’ baggage revealed 64.394 kilograms of hydroponic ganja concealed within their luggage. Officials estimated the seized narcotics to be worth approximately ₹64.39 crore in overseas markets, highlighting the scale of the attempted smuggling operation.
Hydroponic cannabis, often considered more potent than traditional variants, has been increasingly trafficked due to its high demand and value.
Accused reveal smuggling arrangement
During preliminary interrogation, investigators learned that the accused had allegedly received the consignment from an unidentified individual in Bangkok. They were reportedly instructed to deliver the drugs to contacts based in Mumbai.
In exchange, the individuals were promised travel arrangements along with a fixed financial reward. However, their plan was thwarted as authorities intercepted them before they could exit the airport premises.
Legal action under NDPS Act
All four individuals have been charged under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. Following their arrest, they were produced before a court, which remanded them to 14 days of judicial custody.
Officials stated that further investigation is underway to identify the broader network involved in coordinating such cross-border drug trafficking operations.
Rise in smuggling cases from Bangkok
Customs officials noted a growing trend of narcotics being smuggled into India via flights originating from Bangkok over recent months. This has prompted enhanced monitoring and targeted checks at key international entry points, particularly in Mumbai.
Several similar cases have been detected in recent times, resulting in seizures valued at thousands of crores. Authorities believe these incidents point to organized syndicates attempting to exploit passenger routes for illegal drug transport.
Heightened vigilance at airports
In response to the surge, customs authorities have implemented stricter screening measures for passengers arriving from high-risk destinations. Advanced profiling techniques and intelligence-based checks are being used to identify potential carriers.
Officials emphasized that vigilance remains high, and any suspicious activity will be dealt with firmly. The latest seizure underscores ongoing efforts to curb international drug trafficking and safeguard the country’s borders.