Drug Seizure – DRI Intercepts Amphetamine Worth Crores at Delhi Airport
Drug Seizure – The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully prevented an alleged narcotics smuggling attempt at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport after officials recovered a significant quantity of amphetamine hidden inside clothing items carried by an airline passenger. The operation was conducted by the Delhi Zonal Unit of the agency based on specific intelligence received in advance.
Intelligence-Led Operation at Terminal 1
According to officials familiar with the case, the passenger was scheduled to travel from New Delhi to Bengaluru on an early morning domestic flight operated by IndiGo on Sunday. The interception took place at Terminal 1, where DRI personnel closely monitored the baggage after receiving information suggesting the possible transportation of prohibited substances.
Drugs Concealed Inside Women’s Garments
During a detailed examination of the luggage, investigators reportedly discovered multiple transparent packets carefully concealed within women’s suit sets. The packets contained an off-white crystalline material that immediately raised suspicion among the officers conducting the search.
Authorities stated that seven separate packets were recovered from the baggage. The concealment method appeared to be designed to avoid detection during routine checks, prompting officials to conduct a more thorough inspection.
Field Testing Confirms Amphetamine Presence
Following the recovery, samples of the seized material were subjected to preliminary testing using a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) field test kit. The tests confirmed the presence of amphetamine, a banned psychotropic substance under Indian law.
Amphetamine is known for its stimulant effects on the central nervous system and is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and harmful health consequences. Law enforcement agencies across the country continue to monitor and investigate cases involving its illegal distribution and transportation.
Nearly Seven Kilograms Recovered
Officials reported that the total weight of the recovered substance was approximately 6,980 grams, close to seven kilograms. The quantity involved has drawn attention due to its substantial size and the potential impact it could have had if it had entered the illicit drug market.
The seizure highlights the increasing use of sophisticated concealment techniques by smuggling networks attempting to move narcotics through transportation hubs. Authorities have reiterated that intelligence-driven operations remain a critical component of efforts to curb the illegal drug trade.
Estimated Market Value Exceeds Rs 5 Crore
Based on preliminary assessments, the seized amphetamine is estimated to carry a value of around Rs 5.6 crore in the illegal market. The recovery represents a major enforcement action and underscores ongoing efforts by investigative agencies to strengthen surveillance at airports and other transit points.
Officials have not disclosed further details regarding the passenger or any wider network that may be linked to the case. Investigations are continuing to determine the source, intended destination, and possible connections behind the attempted transportation of the prohibited substance.
The latest seizure reflects the continued vigilance of enforcement agencies in detecting and preventing the movement of narcotics across the country while reinforcing security measures at major airports.