Customs officials at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport have intercepted an Indian national arriving from Bangkok, seizing 2.043 kilograms of suspected ganja valued at approximately Rs 71.50 lakh. The seizure occurred on October 2, marking a significant bust in the ongoing efforts to curb illicit drug trafficking.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the passenger was directed for a detailed examination after being singled out from the Green Channel based on specific profiling indicators by Customs officers. The screening process at Terminal 3 is designed to identify individuals potentially involved in smuggling activities, leading to the diversion of the passenger for a thorough baggage inspection.
During the course of the search, authorities discovered two polythene pouches concealed within the passenger’s grey trolley bag. These pouches contained a substance identified as suspected ganja, also known as marijuana. The total net weight of the seized substance was precisely 2,043 grams, and its estimated market value was determined to be around Rs 71.50 lakh, highlighting the substantial quantity and value of the illicit material intercepted.
The passenger was subsequently arrested in connection with the seizure. The arrest was made under Section 43(B) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, which deals with punishment for contravention of provisions relating to penalities. The suspected contraband itself was seized by the authorities under Section 43(A) of the same Act, which empowers customs officers to seize such prohibited substances.
A formal case has been registered against the arrested individual, invoking several sections of the NDPS Act, including Sections 8, 20, 23, and 29. Section 8 prohibits the production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, use, consumption, import, or export of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Section 20 pertains to punishment for cultivation of opium poppy, production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, use, consumption, import, or export of ganja. Section 23 addresses penalty for illegal import into India or export from India or otherwise engaging in any other illegal employ in respect of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Section 29 deals with punishment for attempts to commit offences and abetment, indicating that complicity in conspiracy or aiding and abetting also attracts severe penalties.
Authorities have stated that a comprehensive investigation is currently underway. The focus of this inquiry is to meticulously trace the origin of the suspected ganja and to ascertain its intended final destination within the country or abroad. This investigation aims to dismantle any potential drug trafficking networks that may be involved in facilitating such cross-border smuggling operations. The process involves gathering intelligence, examining financial trails, and collaborating with international law enforcement agencies where necessary to ensure that all individuals involved in the supply chain are identified and brought to justice.
The Chenab Times News Desk