Customs officials at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport have seized suspected marijuana valued at more than Rs 24 crore across three separate interceptions involving passengers arriving from Bangkok. Three individuals have been arrested in connection with the seizures.
The Chenab Times has learned that the largest seizure occurred on May 4, when an Uzbek national arriving from Bangkok was intercepted based on specific intelligence. Following an examination of his luggage, customs officers recovered 12 pouches containing suspected marijuana from a trolley bag. The substance weighed over 18.003 kg and was estimated to be worth approximately Rs 18 crore. The passenger was arrested on May 5 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and the seized material was taken into custody.
In a subsequent case on May 6, an Indian passenger also arriving from Bangkok was intercepted at the airport’s ‘Green Channel’ due to profiling. A detailed baggage examination revealed 11 pouches filled with a green, narcotic substance within a trolley bag. This seizure amounted to 5.467 kg of the substance, with an estimated illicit market value of around Rs 5.46 crore. The passenger was subsequently arrested under the provisions of the NDPS Act.
The third seizure took place on May 3, involving another Indian passenger arriving from Bangkok at Terminal 3. This individual was also intercepted based on profiling. During the examination of their baggage, four pouches containing suspected marijuana were discovered. The recovered substance weighed 977 grams and was valued at approximately Rs 97.77 lakh. Field tests conducted at the scene confirmed the substance to be marijuana. This passenger was also arrested under the relevant sections of the NDPS Act, and further investigations into the matter are ongoing.
These coordinated efforts highlight the vigilance of customs officials at one of India’s busiest international airports in combating drug trafficking. The consistent flow of illicit substances through air travel routes necessitates stringent screening and intelligence-led operations to interdict such activities and ensure national security. The seizures underscore the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in preventing the ingress of contraband into the country, particularly from international transit points.
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, provides for the stringent control and regulation of operations relating to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Under this Act, possession, sale, purchase, transport, and consumption of such substances carry severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment and substantial fines. The arrests made at Delhi airport are a direct consequence of alleged violations of this comprehensive legislation, aimed at curbing the menace of drug abuse and trafficking within India.
The continued success of such interdictions relies heavily on advanced screening technologies, robust intelligence networks, and the dedication of frontline enforcement agencies like the Customs Department. The airport authorities have consistently worked to upgrade their capabilities to detect and deter the smuggling of various contraband items, including narcotics, gold, and arms, through passenger baggage and cargo. These recent seizures are a testament to the effective implementation of these measures.
The investigation into the three cases is expected to continue, with authorities likely to probe the origins of the seized marijuana, the intended destination within India, and any potential links to larger international drug syndicates. Understanding the modus operandi of traffickers and dismantling their networks remains a key objective for law enforcement agencies operating at international entry points. The cooperation between different agencies and the sharing of intelligence are crucial in these ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of the country’s borders against illicit trade.
The recoveries represent a significant blow to drug smugglers attempting to utilize air routes for their illegal activities. The high value attributed to the seized marijuana reflects its potency and demand in the illicit market. The authorities remain committed to intensifying their surveillance and enforcement operations to prevent the proliferation of such substances and protect public health and safety.
The prompt action by customs officials in segregating and testing the substances, coupled with the swift arrests, demonstrates a well-coordinated response to detected threats. The continued commitment of the airport security apparatus and its proactive stance are vital in maintaining the airport’s status as a secure transit hub. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigations progress and more information becomes available regarding the arrested individuals and their alleged involvement.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
