Customs officials at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport have seized approximately 18.15 kilograms of suspected hydroponic marijuana from two passengers arriving from Bangkok. The duo was apprehended under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the seizure occurred on Saturday. Hydroponic weed is a potent variety of cannabis cultivated in nutrient-rich water rather than soil, distinguishing it from traditionally grown marijuana.
The two passengers, who disembarked from a flight originating in Bangkok on July 30, were identified and intercepted after they proceeded through the Customs Green Channel. Their selection was based on profiling conducted through the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS), a measure designed to identify potential risks.
An initial examination of their luggage via X-ray screening revealed anomalous images, prompting customs officers to conduct a more thorough inspection. This detailed examination led to the discovery of 17 vacuum-sealed packets concealed within the baggage.
The packets contained a green-coloured substance, which is suspected to be hydroponic marijuana, also commonly referred to as ganja. Authorities reported that the contraband had been meticulously concealed within the luggage in an apparent attempt to evade detection by screening equipment and customs personnel.
Following the discovery, both passengers were taken into custody and arrested. The suspected ganja, along with the packaging and materials used for concealment, were seized in accordance with the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act. This legislation governs the control and regulation of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in India.
A comprehensive investigation is currently underway to determine the origin of the seized narcotic substance and its intended final destination. Such inquiries are standard procedure following significant drug seizures, aiming to dismantle trafficking networks and prevent further illicit trade.
The incident highlights ongoing efforts by airport authorities to combat the smuggling of contraband into the country. Customs officials at major international airports routinely employ a combination of intelligence-based profiling, advanced screening technology, and physical inspection to detect illegal items being transported by air travellers.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and customs departments across India have been intensifying their surveillance operations to curb the inflow of narcotics and psychotropic substances. These efforts are crucial in maintaining national security and public health.
Hydroponic cultivation techniques, while efficient for growing certain plants, have also become a method for producing high-potency cannabis strains that can command higher prices in illicit markets. The sophistication of concealment methods employed by smugglers continues to evolve, necessitating constant adaptation and vigilance from law enforcement agencies.
The NDPS Act, 1985, provides for the punishment of individuals involved in the production, possession, sale, purchase, transport, and consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Penalties under the Act can range from imprisonment to life imprisonment and substantial fines, depending on the quantity and nature of the substance involved.
Further updates on the investigation are expected as authorities work to uncover the broader network associated with this significant seizure at one of India’s busiest airports.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
